Species profile
Jardini Arowana
Scleropages jardinii
Aggressive
Hard care
2,000 L minimum aquarium
60–100 cm adult size
Top
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Australian/Northern Saratoga. Very large, highly territorial and much less community-tolerant than a Silver Arowana.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–29 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH
4–15 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Top
Territory level
High
Predation risk
Small fish
Bioload factor
7
Strongly territorial surface predator and powerful jumper. Adult specimens are normally kept singly unless managed as specialised broodstock at very large scale.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Caution
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
No / caution
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
2,000 L
Minimum footprint
300 × 100 cm
Accepted scientific name
Scleropages jardinii
Alternative names
Jardini Arowana, Australian Arowana, Northern Saratoga, Scleropages jardinii
Native range
Northern Australia and southern New Guinea.
Natural habitat
Still pools, billabongs and slow-flowing stream sections. Provide enormous open surface area, secure covers, robust filtration and minimal collision hazards.
Diet & feeding
Opportunistic predator feeding on aquatic/terrestrial insects, crustaceans, frogs and fish. Use varied quality prepared/frozen animal foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
No dependable external differences for routine hobby use; confirmed breeding pairs or venting are more reliable.
Breeding
Maternal mouthbrooder: FishBase and specialist references report the female carries fertilised eggs and developing young for several weeks.