Golden Arowana’s scales are very interesting which is why it has discussion value, if the scale defected as long as it isn’t big then they can recover itself , and if it is really big it can pluck it out and wait for it to regrow , the colour it have will become colourful again. For a good quality Juvenile fish, sub-adult fish, their scales luster is really nice, it might even look like a mirror and the clear it is the future of it gold quality might become much better, the dense pattern of scales will also affect it sensitive to environment and brightness, in a blue tank or black tank for 10 years , their precipitation on their base colour will be much different too , and using a better raising method will also affect the outcome of the scale pattern and it luster. And some adult Arowana might have some special pattern to their scales but it might be rougher than the others but it depends on personal preference. Since for a normal type of scale they should be smooth and in order, need to look out for them to avoid them might get scratch marks or defected scales. Inside of the aquarium it is better to put less decoration or ornament, like fake mountain or decorative rock etc. Also need to be careful if they get infected by parasite or white spot disease, because if Arowana got infected they will start rub themselves because of the itchiness and causing it scale to have damage, to avoid these kind of problem it better to keep changing their water once in a while to keep a good water quality. Don’t startle the Arowana. Its side scales can absorb more light than the other part of the scale, after being stimulated by light , their scale film that is going to react to the environment will be much effective, they will have better luster, the shape of the frame will look more solid.