Pirarucu
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NamePirarucu
Scientific NameArapaima gigas
Common NamesPirarucu, Arapaima, Paiche
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
Compatible SpeciesNone (for typical home aquariums), Other extremely large, robust predatory fish (in public aquarium settings)
Description
The Pirarucu is one of the largest freshwater fish in the world, native to the Amazon River basin. It is an obligate air-breather, surfacing periodically to gulp air. Due to its immense size, it is strictly an expert-level fish, typically housed only in public aquariums or very large, specialized ponds.
