The Silver Arowana and Golden Crossback Arowana are both iconic Dragon Fish â but they exist at very different ends of the price and prestige spectrum. The Silver is accessible; the Golden Crossback is one of the most prized aquarium fish in the world.
| Aspect | Silver Arowana | Golden Crossback Arowana |
|---|---|---|
| Price | â 0 - 00 | ,000 - 0,000 |
| đĄ Silver Arowanas are dramatically more affordable. | ||
| Legal in USA | â Yes â no permit required | No â banned under Endangered Species Act |
| đĄ Asian Arowanas including the Golden Crossback cannot be legally owned in the USA. | ||
| Appearance | Silver scales, impressive size | â Gold scales crossing entire back |
| đĄ The Golden Crossback has extraordinary metallic gold colouration. | ||
| Prestige | Popular trophy fish | â Ultimate status symbol in Asia |
| đĄ Asian Arowanas are considered symbols of wealth and good fortune. | ||
| Adult size | â 35-47 inches | 35 inches |
| đĄ Silver Arowanas grow slightly larger. | ||
| Tank size | 250+ gallons | 250+ gallons |
| đĄ Both require very large aquariums. | ||
| CITES status | â Not listed | CITES Appendix I |
| đĄ Golden Crossbacks require extensive documentation. | ||
| Care difficulty | â Intermediate | Expert |
| đĄ Both require large tanks but the Golden Crossback demands more precise conditions. | ||
Choose a Silver Arowana if you are US-based or want an affordable entry into Arowana keeping. Choose a Golden Crossback Arowana if you are outside the USA, have the budget, and want one of the most prestigious aquarium fish in the world.