In terms of shape-wise, Asian arowanas are fairly similar with hardly much differences when they are young. According to individual breeders, the different arowana types may have some differentiations in shape within each farm. But when in comes to an overall breeders' comparison amongst the types, shape uniqueness of each type disappears. Special selling point of a type, eg. spoonhead of a first grade red, can be found in other types of arowana, eg. green arowana. Perhaps it will be better to concentrate on the 'ideal' shape of a young arowana, subjectively, in terms of individual & global preferences. This discussion is based only on local context.
- Head
Head shapes will range anything from those relatively small sized, pointed heads to larger, more rounded heads. Some may prefer the so called 'spoonhead' or 'mousehead' (that is pointed small head that arches creating a small 'hunch' from the body) over the 'bullethead' (larger, rounded head).
- Barbels
The barbels should be long & straight; producing a 'V' shape at the joints with the mouth. The barbels can also be aligned parallel instead of 'V' to each other. Avoid those barbels that crossed each other as that spoils the overall appearance. Parallel barbels are also more likely to 'cross' later on.
- Mouth
The mouth shape can also be pointed or rounded. Ideally, the upper & lower jaws should be able to close tightly so that there is no gap in between. Some young arowanas have a slightly longer lower jaws (aka, protruding lower jaws) which makes the overall appearance more unsightly.
- Eyes
Although the shape of the eyes are roughly the same, it is more of the relative 'size' & 'positioning' one must take note. Young arowanas with relatively large eyes &/or droopy eyes (one or both eye-balls continuously looking downwards) are not so 'ideal'.
- Body
Here the preference is for those with broader & shorter body. Those with top portion of bodyline forming a slight arch from the head portion indicate the fish being well fed. Scale alignment must be neat & tidy. 'Yi Tiao Long' (the top most scale level is arranged in a perfect linear & unbroken line) is desirable, & some people are willing to pay more for them as they are rare.
- Finnage
Finnage should be long & broad, especially the pectoral fins as they give the arowana a grand 'look'. Choose big caudal fins where possible. Caudal fins may be fan-shaped, peach-shaped or diamond-shaped. Ensure that the hard rays of the fins are not crooked.
Posture
Lookout for those finnage that is perpetually spread wide in display while swimming. This makes the arowana proud & arrogant.
- Swmming Posture
The fish should swim smoothly with grace &, at the same time, fearless & arrogant. Swimming should be parallel to & near the water surface. Swimming style should not be tilted sideways too.
- Aggression
Arowana must be able to show its natural predatory nature. it should be constantly on the prowl, & show aggressiveness. In a batch of young arowanas, the 'king' is preferred, provided it is not deformed.
