Ikan Hias Arwana Golden Red
Indonesia is well-known for its diverse and exotic wildlife, especially in the sea. One of the most popular and majestic fish that you can find in Indonesia is the ikan hias arwana golden red, also known as the red arowana. This fish is not only famous for its beauty but also for its cultural significance and value in the aquarium trade market. In this article, we will dive deeper into the world of ikan hias arwana golden red and explore its characteristics, habitat, care, and cultural significance.
What is Ikan Hias Arwana Golden Red?
Ikan hias arwana golden red is a freshwater fish that belongs to the family Osteoglossidae, also known as the bonytongues. It is native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore. This fish has a long and slender body that can grow up to 90 cm in length and weigh up to 3 kg. Its most distinctive feature is the metallic scales that have a golden red color, which gives it a majestic and royal appearance.
Aside from the golden red color, there are also other color variations of ikan hias arwana, such as silver, green, and black. However, the golden red arwana is the most popular and valuable in the aquarium trade market due to its rarity and beauty.
The ikan hias arwana golden red is a carnivorous fish that feeds on small fish, insects, and crustaceans. It has a large mouth and sharp teeth that allow it to catch its prey easily. This fish is also a good jumper and can leap out of the water to catch its prey or escape from predators.
Habitat and Distribution
The ikan hias arwana golden red is native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, including Indonesia. It can be found in the rivers, lakes, and swamps of the rainforest. This fish prefers slow-moving and shallow water with dense vegetation, such as aquatic plants and fallen trees. It is also known to inhabit brackish water, which is a mixture of saltwater and freshwater.
Due to its popularity and high demand in the aquarium trade market, the ikan hias arwana golden red has been introduced to many other countries, such as the United States, China, and Europe. However, it is important to note that the import and export of this fish are regulated by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) due to its endangered status and vulnerability to overfishing and habitat destruction.
Care and Maintenance
The ikan hias arwana golden red is a delicate and sensitive fish that requires proper care and maintenance to thrive in captivity. If you are planning to keep this fish as a pet, here are some tips on how to take care of it:
1. Tank size and environment: The ikan hias arwana golden red requires a large tank with a minimum size of 500 gallons due to its size and active behavior. It also requires a well-oxygenated and clean water environment with a pH level of 6.5-7.5 and a temperature range of 75-86°F. It is recommended to add aquatic plants, rocks, and caves in the tank to mimic its natural habitat and provide hiding places.
2. Feeding: As a carnivorous fish, the ikan hias arwana golden red requires a varied and protein-rich diet. You can feed it with live or frozen food such as small fish, shrimp, crickets, and worms. It is also important to avoid overfeeding as it can lead to obesity and other health problems.
3. Tank mates: The ikan hias arwana golden red is a solitary and aggressive fish that may harm other fish or even itself. It is recommended to keep it alone or with other large and aggressive fish that can handle its behavior, such as other arowanas, catfish, or cichlids.
4. Water filtration and maintenance: The ikan hias arwana golden red produces a large amount of waste, which can quickly degrade the water quality and harm its health. It is important to use a high-quality water filter and perform regular water changes and maintenance to keep the water clean and healthy.
Cultural Significance
The ikan hias arwana golden red has a significant cultural and symbolic value in Indonesia and other Southeast Asian countries. It is often considered as a symbol of wealth, prosperity, and good luck due to its golden red color and majestic appearance. In many Indonesian and Chinese cultures, the ikan hias arwana golden red is believed to bring fortune and ward off evil spirits.
The ikan hias arwana golden red is also highly valued in the aquarium trade market, where it can fetch a high price ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on its size, color, and quality. This has led to overfishing and habitat destruction in the wild, which has threatened its survival and led to its listing under CITES.
Conclusion
Ikan hias arwana golden red is a beautiful and majestic fish that has captured the hearts of many aquarium enthusiasts and cultural believers. However, it is important to remember that this fish is not just a decorative item or a symbol of status, but also a living creature that requires proper care and protection. By understanding its characteristics, habitat, care, and cultural significance, we can appreciate the beauty and value of the ikan hias arwana golden red and ensure its survival for generations to come.