[2][3] Compared to these, the African arowana has a more terminal mouth and is the only one that feeds extensively on plankton.

African arowanas have air-breathing organs on its branchiae, enabling them to survive in oxygen-depleted water.

A suprabranchial organ allows it to concentrate small planktonic food particles and also has a sensory function.

[4] African arowana is used locally as a food fish and has been collected in the past for the aquarium trade.

[6] It is aquacultured in its native range, being a very successful culture due to its tolerance for crowding and ease of feeding.