Arapaima
Image: Ministerio de la Producción (Public domain)
NameArapaima
Scientific NameArapaima gigas
Common NamesArapaima, Paiche, Pirarucu
FamilyArapaimidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)5000
Max Size (Inches)120
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)75-82
pH Range6.0-7.5
Description
The Arapaima is one of the largest freshwater fish in the world, native to the Amazon and Essequibo basins. It is an ancient, air-breathing predatory fish known for its impressive size, unique bony scales, and striking appearance. Due to its immense adult size, it is only suitable for public aquariums or extremely large, specialized private facilities.
