Mary Allen
Introduction: The Majestic Asian Arowana
The Asian Arowana, also known as the dragon fish or the arrowtail fish, is a freshwater fish that belongs to the family Osteoglossidae. This fish is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. The Arowana is a highly prized fish among collectors and enthusiasts, not only because of its majestic appearance but also because of its cultural significance in the region.
History and Cultural Significance
The Arowana has been around for more than 150 million years and is considered a living fossil. It is believed to have originated from the Gondwanaland supercontinent, which existed more than 200 million years ago. The Arowana has been a symbol of wealth, prosperity, and good fortune in many Asian cultures. In China, the Arowana is called “long yu” or dragon fish and is considered a symbol of power, strength, and good luck. It is believed to bring wealth and success to its owner. In Malaysia and Indonesia, the Arowana is known as “ikan kelisa” and “ikan arwana,” respectively, and is considered a sacred fish that brings good fortune and protects its owner from harm.