What visual characteristics link the Asian Arowana to the Chinese dragon imagery?
Its large, reflective, metallic scales likened to coins, and its undulating movement recalling paper dragons
The cultural reverence for the Asian Arowana in many Asian societies is heavily rooted in its visual aesthetic, specifically its resemblance to the revered Chinese dragon. This connection is drawn from two primary physical attributes. Firstly, the fish is encased in large, heavy, metallic scales that catch the light, often appearing bronze, silver, or gold; these scales are metaphorically compared to valuable coins. Secondly, the smooth, graceful, side-to-side movement as the fish swims creates an undulating visual flow that strongly mirrors the appearance of the large, articulated paper dragons utilized in traditional festivals, such as the Chinese New Year parades.
