Scleropages Leichardti

Datasheet

General Description

The Spotted Australian Arowana, scientifically known as Scleropages Leichardti, is distinguishable from its Asian relatives by features such as its smaller scale size, increased lateral scale count, and less vibrant patterning. Native to the Fitzroy River system in North-eastern Queensland, Australia, this species is primarily found in slow-moving or stagnant bodies of water like streams, creeks, and swamps. Reaching lengths of up to 90.0cm, this fish is sometimes referred to as the spotted or southern saratoga in Australia and is considered a protected species in Indonesia, even though it has never been officially recorded there.

Aquarium Setup

Spotted Australian Arowanas necessitate a spacious aquarium of at least 680 liters with robust filtration and a snug, heavy lid to prevent them from jumping out. While tank decorations are not crucial, maintaining high water quality through regular changes is essential. The ideal water conditions for these fish include a hardness of 8-15°dH, a pH range of 6.8-7.5, and a temperature between 24-30°C.

Behaviour

Commonly territorial and aggressive towards other arowana, these fish typically fare well when housed singularly unless in groups of 6-10 individuals with sufficient space to disperse territorial disputes. Spotted Australian Arowanas may consume smaller fish but can coexist with larger species like catfish, characins, knifefish, and certain cichlids, among others, if carefully monitored as they grow.

Feeding and Diet

While live feeder fish are a popular choice among hobbyists, it is advised against due to potential disease transmission. Optimal diets for Spotted Australian Arowanas include earthworms, mealworms, bloodworms, and a variety of frozen and dried foods to prevent food addiction. Feeding frequency should vary based on the fish's length, with smaller juveniles benefiting from multiple feedings a day and larger adults requiring one feeding per day.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Not commonly bred in captivity, Spotted Australian Arowanas are occasionally bred in Australian fish farms due to the challenges of reproducing them in home aquariums. These fish exhibit mouthbrooding behavior, with the female caring for the fry after hatching and providing protection until they can fend for themselves. Sexual dimorphism data for this species is unavailable.

Habitat and Distribution

Endemic to the Fitzroy River system in North-eastern Queensland, Australia, Spotted Australian Arowanas have also been introduced to select areas in Southern Queensland for sport fishing purposes. They prefer turbid waters with surface vegetation or overhanging branches in habitats such as streams, billabongs, and swamps.