Pearl Arowana Jardini
Live Fish
Pickup currently unavailable at Napier
Shipping & Returns
All live fish are shipped using NZPost overnight services with authority to leave (no signature).
We cannot guarantee the overnight services, this is a service that we/you pay for; but is not guaranteed.
We DO NOT offer returns on any alive animal.
Above are key points of our policy, Click Here to read our full shipping policy.
Dead On Arrival (DOA) Cover*
- DOA must be reported within 2 hours of delivery.
- Bags must remain sealed (do not remove rubber band or tape)
- Photos & Videos must be supplied this can be emailed or sent through live chat; including your order No. (minimum 3 clear images, showing dead fish & sealed bag)
- DOA does not apply once the bags are opened & fish have been released.
- DOA does not apply to any Rural (RD) address.
Introducing New Fish
Follow these steps to minimize stress and ensure a smooth transition for your new fish!
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Float the Bag: Place the sealed bag containing the new fish in the tank. This equalizes the temperature between bag and tank water.
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Open and Add Tank Water Gradually: After about 5 minutes, open the bag and add a small amount of aquarium water into it every 5 minutes for 15–30 minutes. This helps the fish acclimate to the tank’s water chemistry.
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Wait 15–30 Minutes: Let the fish adjust to the water temperature and chemistry gradually in the bag.
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Release Fish: Gently release the fish into the tank without pouring the original bag water in.
The Pearl Jardini Arowana (Scleropages jardinii), also known as the Northern Jardini Arowana, is a striking Australian-native freshwater predator recognised for its bold pearlescent spotting and powerful presence. Each large metallic scale features a distinct pearl-like highlight, giving this species its premium appearance.
More assertive than Silver Arowanas, Pearl Jardinis are best suited to experienced aquarists with very large, well-maintained aquariums. When provided with space and stable conditions, they become a commanding centrepiece fish with impressive surface-swimming behaviour.
Physical Characteristics
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Adult Size: Up to 90 cm (35+ inches)
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Coloration: Bronze to olive base with strong pearlescent spotting
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Body Shape: Long, muscular, torpedo-shaped
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Distinct Features: Large metallic scales, powerful jaw, surface-feeding mouth
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Sexual Dimorphism: Not visually distinguishable
Behaviour & Temperament
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Temperament: Semi-aggressive to aggressive
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Tank Level: Surface
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Behaviour: Highly territorial, especially as it matures
Suitable Tank Mates
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Very large, robust fish only
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Large catfish species
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Large, non-aggressive cichlids
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Only in extremely large systems with careful planning
Avoid:
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Small fish (will be eaten)
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Other Arowanas unless in massive systems
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Fin-nipping or aggressive species
Breeding Information
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Spawning Type: Mouthbrooder
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Parental Care: Male incubates eggs and fry in the mouth
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Breeding Notes: Rare in captivity due to size and aggression
Special Considerations
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More aggressive than Silver Arowanas
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Extremely powerful jumper — secure lid is essential
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Requires pristine water quality and strong filtration
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Long lifespan and adult size require long-term commitment
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Recommended for experienced aquarists only
Aquarium Requirements
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Minimum Tank Size: 1,000+ litres (larger strongly recommended)
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Water Temperature: 24–30°C
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pH Range: 6.0–7.5
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Water Hardness: 2–15 dGH
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Substrate: Bare bottom or smooth gravel
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Decor: Open swimming space with minimal obstructions
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Filtration: Very strong, high-capacity filtration
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Lighting: Moderate
Diet & Feeding
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Diet Type: Carnivore
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Recommended Foods:
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High-quality floating Arowana pellets
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Frozen prawns, fish fillets, insects
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Occasional live foods where legal
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Feeding Frequency: Once daily (juveniles may need more frequent feeding)
Pet City aims to provide up to date product information including ingredients, size and colour specifications, packaging and product features, as provided to us by the product manufacturer. As product details change from time to time, this information is intended as a guide only and some delay may occur in the updating of our listing. Product images are indicative of the appearance and the product delivered may vary slightly from the product image show. When precise information is important, we recommend that you read the label on the products you purchase or contact the manufacturer of the product.