Arowana: The Dragon Fish That Brings Wealth and Prosperity

• 22 October 2024October 22, 2024
• Feng Shui
• Tips

The Arowana fish, also known as the “Dragon Fish,” is one of the most revered creatures in Chinese culture. With its long, sleek body and majestic scales that shimmer like gold or silver, this freshwater fish carries a powerful presence. Native to Southeast Asia, the Arowana has earned its place not only for its striking appearance but also for the deep symbolism attached to it in feng shui and Chinese traditions.

In Chinese culture, the Arowana represents strength, wealth, and prosperity. Its connection to the mythical dragon, a symbol of power and success in Chinese lore, has made it a popular emblem of good fortune. Many believe that keeping an Arowana, or its representations, in homes or businesses can attract positive energy, leading to financial success and personal growth.

This article explores the symbolism and significance of the Arowana fish in Chinese culture and feng shui. We’ll dive into its majestic physical features, the ancient legends that surround it, and how its presence can invite good fortune into your life. Whether you are a feng shui enthusiast, an admirer of Chinese traditions, or simply curious about this fascinating creature, this post will shed light on why the Arowana is more than just a fish—it’s a symbol of abundance and power.

The Arowana Fish: A Majestic Creature

The Arowana fish is renowned for its elegance and unique appearance. Often referred to as the “Dragon Fish,” it embodies grace and power, with its streamlined body and large, metallic-like scales that reflect light in mesmerizing patterns. Its elongated shape, paired with long pectoral fins and a jawline that slightly curls upward, gives it an unmistakable resemblance to the mythical dragon—a creature of immense significance in Chinese culture.

Arowanas come in various colors and types, each with distinct characteristics. The most well-known varieties include the Golden Arowana, prized for its shimmering gold scales that are believed to symbolize wealth, and the Red Arowana, whose vibrant red hue is associated with power and prosperity. Other notable types include the Green Arowana, representing balance and harmony, and the Silver Arowana, admired for its sleek, reflective body.

This fish can grow up to three feet in length, making it an impressive presence in any aquarium. Its large, broad scales create a shield-like appearance, which adds to its symbolism of protection and strength. These features, combined with its graceful swimming style, make the Arowana a true symbol of majesty in both nature and culture.

The Arowana fish is native to various regions across Southeast Asia, South America, and Australia. In the wild, it inhabits rivers, swamps, and floodplains, where it thrives in both freshwater and brackish environments. Its adaptability to different habitats has contributed to its popularity as an ornamental fish in aquariums worldwide.

Why It’s Called the “DragonFish”

The Arowana’s nickname, “Dragon Fish,” stems from its striking resemblance to the traditional depiction of Chinese dragons. Like the dragon, the Arowana has an elongated body, powerful presence, and an air of mystery. Its graceful movements in water are often compared to how dragons are imagined to soar through the sky. In Chinese mythology, dragons are seen as bringers of good fortune, prosperity, and protection—qualities that have been transferred to the Arowana fish. The association is so strong that in many Asian cultures, keeping an Arowana is considered akin to inviting the powerful energy of a dragon into your life.

Arowana Fish in Chinese Culture: A Symbol of Power

The Arowana fish is steeped in rich folklore and legends that highlight its revered status in Chinese culture. One such tale recounts how a humble fisherman discovered a mystical Arowana in a sacred river. This fish was said to possess the power to transform misfortune into prosperity with a simple flick of its tail.

The fisherman, seeking guidance from a wise Feng Shui master, learned to harness the Arowana’s auspicious energy to revitalize his village. As they released the fish into a specially constructed pond, the village flourished, crops thrived, and prosperity returned. Such stories not only celebrate the Arowana’s beauty but also emphasize its role as a harbinger of good fortune and protection.

Connection to Success, Wealth, and Prosperity

In Chinese culture, the Arowana is synonymous with success and wealth. Its vibrant colors, particularly gold and red, are thought to symbolize financial prosperity. In Chinese language, the word for fish, ” Yú,”(鱼)  sounds similar to abundance, “Yù” (䘱), reinforcing Arowana’s symbolism. The phrase “ nián nián yǒu yú,” (年年有馀 ) which translates to “seeing abundant harvests every year,” encapsulates the belief that keeping an Arowana can lead to continuous wealth and good fortune.  

Many business owners and entrepreneurs incorporate Arowanas into their environments, believing that these fish bring luck and enhance their financial prospects. The strong association between the Arowana and wealth has made it a prized possession among collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Historical Uses and Depictions in Chinese Art

Throughout history, the Arowana has been depicted in various forms of Chinese art, reflecting its cultural significance. Paintings, sculptures, and decorative motifs often feature this majestic fish, symbolizing abundance and prosperity.

In traditional Chinese homes, aquariums or water features housing Arowanas are common, serving not only as aesthetic enhancements but also as symbols of good fortune. The fish’s image is frequently used in Feng Shui practices, where it is believed that placing an Arowana in strategic locations can invite wealth and positive energy into one’s life

Related reading: The Significance of Aquarium in Feng Shui: Creating Harmony, Wealth, and Wellness – Opens in new tab

Feng Shui and the Arowana: Attracting Good Fortune

In feng shui, the Arowana fish is revered as one of the most potent symbols for attracting wealth and abundance. Its deep connection to the element of water—associated with flow, fortune, and opportunity—makes it a highly sought-after creature for those looking to enhance prosperity in their homes or businesses. The Arowana, with its dragon-like form, brings with it not only financial success but also protection and good luck.

The Arowana as a Symbol of Wealth and Abundance

The Arowana’s association with wealth stems from both its resemblance to the dragon and its natural habitat in water. Dragons in Chinese mythology are powerful creatures that control water, an element closely tied to wealth. Water signifies life, flow, and renewal, while its movement represents the constant flow of energy, often linked to financial gain. Therefore, the Arowana, often seen as a “living dragon,” symbolizes the flow of wealth, abundance, and prosperity.

In feng shui, it is believed that the mere presence of an Arowana in a home or business can activate positive energy, or “chi”, (气) leading to enhanced financial opportunities and protection from misfortune. The fish’s shimmering scales, particularly in gold or red varieties, also symbolize gold coins, further reinforcing its connection to material wealth.

How the Arowana is Used in Feng Shui Practices

Feng shui practitioners often recommend placing live Arowana fish or symbolic representations, such as statues or artwork, in strategic locations to enhance prosperity. If you are unable to care for a live Arowana, which can be demanding, statues or paintings of the fish can be just as effective for attracting fortune. The fish is often used in feng shui to activate wealth corners or enhance specific areas in the Bagua map, the energetic grid used in feng shui.

The flowing movement of the Arowana in an aquarium is believed to stimulate positive energy flow, while its watchful presence protects against financial setbacks. When combined with other feng shui symbols, such as water fountains or money trees, the Arowana becomes a focal point for financial success and protection from loss.

Ideal Placement of Arowana Symbols and Tanks in the Home

For those looking to incorporate Arowana into their feng shui practices, placement is key to harnessing its full potential. The most effective location for an Arowana fish tank or symbol is in the southeast sector of the home or office. This area of the Bagua map is associated with wealth and prosperity, making it the ideal place to enhance financial energy.

Additionally, the north sector, which governs career and life path, is another excellent location. Placing an Arowana here can promote career success and attract new opportunities for growth. It’s important to position the Arowana in areas where it will be visible but not blocked by clutter, as this could impede the flow of positive chi.

Avoid placing Arowana tanks in the bedroom, kitchen, or bathroom, as these locations can disrupt the natural flow of energy. In feng shui, water elements in the bedroom can create emotional imbalance, while the kitchen’s fire energy may conflict with the water element, and the bathroom’s draining effect can cause loss of wealth.

Significance of Color and Type in Feng Shui

The type and color of the Arowana you choose are also significant in feng shui, as each variety carries its own unique energy:

• Golden Arowana: This is the most popular type used in feng shui, symbolizing immense wealth, luxury, and financial success. Its shimmering gold scales resemble gold coins, making it a powerful magnet for prosperity.
• Red Arowana: The red color is linked to power, success, and protection. A Red Arowana is believed to bring success in business and career while also offering protection against negative energy.
• Green Arowana: Representing balance, health, and harmony, the Green Arowana is an excellent choice for those seeking to improve their well-being and maintain peace in their home.
• Silver and Blue Arowana: These colors are associated with spiritual growth, peace, and tranquility. A Silver or Blue Arowana can enhance a sense of calm and clarity, making it ideal for those seeking balance in both their personal and financial lives.

Choosing the right color and type of Arowana, along with its proper placement, can greatly amplify its ability to attract wealth, success, and positive energy into your space.

Placement of Arowana Symbol in offices and businesses for wealth growth

The strategic placement of Arowana fish or symbols is crucial for unlocking their potential in business feng shui. For business owners, the Arowana should be placed in areas of the office or workspace that align with wealth and success energies. Here are some ideal placement tips:

• Wealth Corner (Southeast): The southeast area of any space is considered the “wealth corner” in feng shui. Placing a live Arowana fish tank or a well-crafted statue here can amplify the flow of wealth and attract financial opportunities.
• Entrance or Reception Areas: Placing an Arowana near the entrance of a business, such as in the reception area, symbolizes the arrival of positive energy and wealth. This ensures that every person entering the business is greeted by good fortune and success.
• Executive Offices: In the office of the business owner or key executives, an Arowana (either live or symbolic) can enhance personal authority and success. Positioned in the north sector, which governs career and life path, it can help strengthen leadership skills and decision-making while attracting opportunities for career advancement.
• Office Desks: Placing a small Arowana statue or image on office desks can serve as a constant reminder of financial goals and ambitions.
• Meeting Rooms: Having an Arowana tank in meeting rooms can enhance discussions around financial growth, encouraging prosperity-oriented conversations.

It is important to ensure that the Arowana is placed in a clean, well-maintained environment, free of clutter or negative energy, to maximize its positive effects.

Feng Shui Tips for Entrepreneurs Using Arowana Fish

For entrepreneurs looking to harness the power of the Arowana fish, here are some feng shui tips to keep in mind:

1. Choose the Right Type: Selecting the appropriate type and color of Arowana is crucial for aligning with your business goals. For financial growth, opt for a Golden or Red Arowana. These varieties are believed to offer the strongest energy for success and prosperity, particularly in competitive industries.
2. Use Live Arowana for Maximum Impact: While statues and artwork are effective, live Arowana fish are believed to bring the most potent energy into a space. The continuous movement of the fish represents the active flow of money and opportunities. If you opt for a live Arowana, ensure the tank is large and well-maintained, as a neglected or unhealthy environment can result in negative energy.
3. Balance Water Element with Earth Elements: When placing a live Arowana tank, ensure it is balanced with other feng shui elements, particularly earth elements like crystals or plants. This helps to ground the water energy, preventing financial loss or imbalance. Avoid placing the fish tank near the fire element, such as areas with heavy use of red décor, as this can create conflict in energy flow.
4. Avoid Overloading the Space: While Arowana are powerful symbols, it’s essential not to overload the space with too many feng shui enhancements. Focus on a few well-placed, high-quality pieces, such as a statue or tank, rather than filling the office with multiple symbols. Simplicity ensures the energy flows freely and effectively.
5. Regularly Cleanse and Maintain the Space: Cleanliness and organization are key to keeping positive energy flowing. Ensure the fish tank is cleaned regularly and that the surrounding area is tidy. For those using statues or artwork, dust and cleanse them frequently to avoid stagnation.

Want to learn more about Feng Shui? Check out our suggestions: Feng Shui Bookshelf – Opens in new tab

Caring for Arowana: Bringing Good Energy to Your Space

Proper care of your Arowana fish is essential not only for its well-being but also for maintaining the positive energy associated with it in feng shui. A healthy and vibrant Arowana fish is a symbol of good fortune and prosperity.

Here are some practical care tips for Arowana fish tanks:

• Choose a large aquarium. Arowana fish are large and need plenty of space to swim. A minimum tank size of 6 feet long is recommended.
• Provide adequate filtration. A strong filtration system is essential to maintain good water quality and prevent diseases.
• Maintain a stable water temperature. Arowana fish prefer a water temperature between 75-82 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Provide a suitable substrate. A soft, sandy substrate is ideal for Arowana fish. Avoid sharp or jagged substrates that can injure the fish.
• Provide a Secure Lid: Arowanas are known for their ability to leap out of tanks, especially when startled. To prevent accidents, ensure the tank has a secure lid or cover that can handle the fish’s strength and size.
• Decorate the tank appropriately. Arowana fish prefer a natural-looking environment with plenty of hiding places. Avoid using decorations that are too sharp or have sharp edges.

In addition to these practical care tips, it is important to follow best practices for keeping Arowana fish healthy:

• Feed your Arowana a balanced diet. Arowana fish are carnivores and require a diet rich in protein. Feed them a variety of high-quality fish food, such as pellets, flakes, or frozen food.
• Avoid overfeeding. Overfeeding can lead to water quality problems and health issues.
• Perform regular water changes. Water changes are essential to remove harmful toxins and maintain good water quality.
• Monitor your fish for signs of illness. If your Arowana fish appears lethargic, has a loss of appetite, or exhibits unusual behavior, it may be a sign of illness. Consult a veterinarian if you are concerned about your fish’s health.

A well-maintained Arowana fish tank is not only essential for the health of your fish but also for maintaining the positive energy associated with it in feng shui. A healthy and vibrant Arowana fish is a powerful symbol of good fortune and prosperity. By following these care tips, you can ensure that your Arowana fish remains healthy and continues to bring positive energy to your space.

🍀 Our “Feng Shui Master” app is your trusted companion, offering a useful guide to implementing Feng Shui principles. Try it now!

Arowana Fish and Good Luck Charms

In addition to keeping a live Arowana fish or displaying an Arowana statue in your home or office, there are other ways to incorporate the Arowana into your feng shui practices. Arowana-inspired décor can be a powerful tool for enhancing luck and prosperity.

Here are some examples of Arowana-inspired décor that you can use to enhance your feng shui:

• Arowana statues and figurines: These can be placed in various locations throughout your home or office to attract wealth and prosperity.
• Arowana paintings and artwork: Hanging Arowana-inspired artwork can create a positive and auspicious atmosphere.
• Arowana-themed jewelry: Wearing Arowana-themed jewelry can bring good fortune and personal protection.
• Arowana-inspired home accessories: Incorporating Arowana-inspired items, such as cushions, rugs, or curtains, can enhance the positive energy of your space.

Check out these Arowana artworks (Aff.link)

Combining Arowana with Other Feng Shui Symbols for Maximum Effect

To maximize the benefits of the Arowana in Feng Shui, consider combining it with other auspicious symbols. Here are some effective combinations:

• Coins and Wealth Vases: Placing an Arowana statue alongside traditional symbols of wealth, such as Chinese coins or wealth vases filled with rice or gold ingots, can amplify its ability to attract financial abundance.
• Bamboo Plants: Bamboo is a symbol of strength and resilience. Pairing an Arowana with bamboo plants can enhance overall prosperity while promoting harmony and growth in your environment.
• Crystal Ornaments: Crystals like citrine or pyrite are known for their wealth-attracting properties. Positioning these crystals near an Arowana statue or tank can create a powerful energy field that encourages financial success.

Common Feng Shui Mistakes with Arowana Fish

While Arowana fish and their symbols are powerful tools in feng shui, using them incorrectly can lead to unintended negative effects. Proper placement and balance are crucial to ensuring the positive energy and good fortune associated with the Arowana are activated in your space.

Let’s explore some common feng shui mistakes that people make when incorporating Arowana symbols and how to avoid them.

Misplacement of Arowana Symbols and Its Effects

One of the most significant mistakes in feng shui is placing Arowana symbols or fish tanks in the wrong area of a home or office. Since the Arowana is linked to wealth and success, its placement should be deliberate and aligned with feng shui principles to activate the right kind of energy.

1. Placing the Arowana in the Bathroom: This is a major feng shui faux pas. Bathrooms represent drainage, and placing any symbol of wealth, including the Arowana, in or near a bathroom can lead to financial loss or opportunities “draining” away. Keep Arowana tanks and statues far from bathrooms, sinks, or any place associated with waste or drainage.
2. Positioning the Arowana Opposite the Front Door: Placing an Arowana fish tank or statue directly opposite the main entrance can cause energy to rush out of your home or business too quickly. In feng shui, the front door is the mouth of chi, where energy enters. If an Arowana is placed opposite the door, it can push wealth away rather than inviting it in. Instead, position the Arowana at an angle to the front door or in wealth-enhancing areas like the southeast corner.
3. Inauspicious Directions: Not aligning your Arowana with auspicious directions can lead to stagnant or even negative energy. In general, the best placement for an Arowana fish tank or statue is in the southeast corner of a room, which governs wealth, or the north for career growth. These placements activate prosperity and success energies. Avoid placing the Arowana in the southwest or west, as these areas are not energetically aligned with wealth growth and may weaken its effects.

Overemphasis on One Element and Imbalance of Energy

Another frequent error is overemphasizing the Arowana as the sole source of wealth and prosperity while neglecting other elements of Feng Shui. Relying solely on one symbol can create an imbalance in energy flow within a space.

Feng Shui emphasizes harmony among various elements—such as water, wood, fire, earth, and metal. An overemphasis on the Arowana without integrating other supportive symbols can lead to stagnation or a lack of holistic growth. It’s essential to create a balanced environment that incorporates multiple symbols and elements to foster overall well-being.

How to Avoid Bad Luck When Incorporating Arowana into Your Space

To avoid bad luck when incorporating Arowana into your space, consider these practical tips:

• Choose the Right Location: Always place the Arowana in auspicious areas, such as the southeast corner for wealth or near water features to enhance its positive energy.
• Mind the Number: When keeping multiple fish, ensure they are in odd numbers (like 1, 3, 5) for better energy flow. Avoid keeping them in pairs, as this can symbolize separation or imbalance.
• Regular Maintenance: Keep the tank clean and well-maintained. A dirty or poorly kept tank can reflect negative energy and impact not only the fish’s health but also the overall energy of your space.
• Combine with Other Symbols: Integrate other Feng Shui symbols that resonate with your goals—such as coins for wealth or bamboo for growth—creating a synergistic effect that enhances prosperity.
• Be Mindful of Symbolism: Ensure that the Arowana fish or its symbol is in a place of honor and respect. Do not place it on the floor or in corners where energy can stagnate. Keeping it elevated or in a central, visible area allows the powerful energy it brings to flow freely throughout the space.

Check out these Arowana artworks (Aff.link)

The Arowana as a Status Symbol in Modern Times

The Arowana fish has not only maintained its cultural significance but has also become a highly sought-after status symbol in modern times. Its association with wealth, prosperity, and power has made it a popular choice among collectors and enthusiasts.

Popularity Among Collectors and Enthusiasts

The Arowana fish has gained immense popularity among collectors and aquarium enthusiasts, particularly in Asia. This fascination stems from its striking beauty, rarity, and symbolic significance.

Collectors often seek out specific color variations, such as the coveted Platinum Arowana, which can fetch prices as high as $400,000. Owning an Arowana is not just about having a pet; it signifies a commitment to the hobby and showcases the collector’s status within the community.

The exclusivity of these fish has led to a thriving market where enthusiasts engage in bidding wars for rare specimens, further elevating their value.

Why the Arowana is Seen as a Sign of Wealth Today

The Arowana’s status as a luxury item is deeply rooted in cultural beliefs and its historical transformation from a common meal to a prized possession. Once considered a poor man’s fish in Southeast Asia, conservation efforts in the 1970s led to its classification as endangered.

This rarity has created a perception of exclusivity, making it highly sought after by wealthy individuals who view it as a symbol of success and prosperity. In many cultures, particularly in China, owning an Arowana is associated with good fortune and positive energy, reinforcing its image as a status symbol. Business owners and executives often display these fish in elaborate aquariums to convey affluence and sophistication.

Stories of Prized Arowana Fish and Their High Value

Numerous stories highlight the extraordinary value placed on prized Arowana fish. For instance, reports indicate that some high-profile individuals have paid staggering amounts for rare specimens—such as an unnamed Chinese official who reportedly spent $300,000 on an exceptional Arowana.

Such transactions not only reflect personal wealth but also serve as gestures of goodwill in business relationships. The allure of rare Arowanas has led to tales of high-stakes dealings and even illegal smuggling in some cases, underscoring the lengths collectors will go to acquire these aquatic treasures.

The combination of rarity, cultural significance, and striking aesthetics positions the Arowana not just as an ornamental fish but as a powerful status symbol in modern society.

Final Thoughts

The Arowana fish is a majestic and enigmatic creature that holds significant importance in Chinese culture and feng shui. Its symbolism as a dragon, its association with wealth and prosperity, and its enduring popularity as a status symbol have made it a highly sought-after symbol in modern times.

By understanding the cultural significance of the Arowana fish and incorporating it into your feng shui practices, you can harness its positive energy to enhance your luck, prosperity, and overall well-being. Whether you choose to keep a live Arowana fish, display Arowana symbols, or incorporate Arowana-inspired décor, this magnificent creature can bring a touch of magic and prosperity to your life.

It is important to remember that the Arowana fish is not only a symbol but also a living creature. Responsible care and conservation are essential to ensure the survival of this species and its continued contribution to our cultural heritage.

Want to learn more about Feng Shui? Check out our suggestions: Feng Shui Bookshelf – Opens in new tab