Silver Arowana won't eat

[kokosnood]

Hi,

I recently got my first aro; a 22" silver. The woman I got her from said he hadn't been eating for a while--maybe why she gave him away. I've tried pellets (which the woman said he used to eat) and mealworms. He just ignores them.

I've also noticed him "dry heaving" a couple times. He opens his mouth and looks like he's trying to throw up; but nothing comes out.

The tank he came out of was the same size I have him in now--6' x 18". I am actively searching for something bigger.

The tank he came out of had runaway water hardness--we have hardwater in this area and I think the former owners were using tap water to top off for evaporation. I am using RO water to top off, and the TDS is the same as our tapwater (around 400.) Nutrient levels are nominal.

Also, I was thinking of adding some dried leaves to the bottom of the tank to reduce pH and increase tannins. I know silver aros come from the Amazon and I thought this might stimulate him to eat.


Please advise.

Thanks!
s

 

[Bderick67]

Two things to realize, large silver will go on "hunger strikes" sometimes lasting near two months. Silver arose may also take ages weeks to become comfortable in new tank before they will eat. Just be patient and don't let food sit in the tank.

 

[Bazinga]

yupp be arve him for a while, he will be ok itll just take time

 

[Bderick67]

Two things to realize, large silver will go on "hunger strikes" sometimes lasting near two months. Silver arose may also take ages weeks to become comfortable in new tank before they will eat. Just be patient and don't let food sit in the tank.

 

[lil_pendejo]

I have seen small mice used to get them feeding again. Just my two cents.

 

[kokosnood]

Leaves in the tank--good idea ?

 

[jsodwi]

Two things to realize, large silver will go on "hunger strikes" sometimes lasting near two months. Silver arose may also take ages weeks to become comfortable in new tank before they will eat. Just be patient and don't let food sit in the tank.