Arapaima
Image: Elson Cardoso de Jesus, Lucas Cardoso, Tamiris Henrique Ferreira, Mauricio Laterça Martins, Marília Danyelle Nunes Rodrigues (CC BY 4.0)
NameArapaima
Scientific NameArapaima gigas
Common NamesArapaima, Pirarucu, Paiche
FamilyArapaimidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)2000
Max Size (Inches)120
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)75-82
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesNone
Description
Arapaima are one of the largest freshwater fish in the world, native to the Amazon basin. They are obligate air-breathers, requiring access to the surface, and are known for their impressive size and predatory nature. Due to their immense adult size, they are only suitable for public aquariums or extremely large, specialized private setups.
