Arapaima (Arapaima gigas)

Scientific name: Arapaima gigas Schinz, 1822

The Arapaima (Arapaima gigas) is a freshwater fish of the family Arapaimidae. In the aquarium it needs water at 25–29°C (77–84°F).

Arapaima care at a glance

Temperature: 25–29°C (77–84°F)

Biology

Often referred to as the largest freshwater fish. Builds a nest of about 15 cm depth and 50 cm width in sandy bottoms. Spawns in April and May and guards the eggs and the young. Obligate air breather. The fish rises to the surface of the water and inspires air in a noisy, distinctive gulp, which is reported to carry for long distances. Threatened due to over harvesting.

Source: FishBase, licensed CC BY-NC 4.0.

Species facts

Scientific name: Arapaima gigas
Family: Arapaimidae (Bonytongues)
Order: Osteoglossiformes (Bony tongues)
Class: Actinopterygii (Ray-finned fishes)
Maximum length: 450
Common length: 200
Environment: Freshwater;; pH range: 6.0 - 6.5; dH range: 10 - ? demersal
Climate: Tropical
Distribution: South America: Amazon River basin. International trade restricted. The active fishing of this fish has reduced both the population size, and occurrence of large individuals, especially around the populated regions of the Amazon.
Conservation status (IUCN): Data deficient (DD)
Threat to humans: Harmless
Uses: Fisheries: commercial; aquaculture: commercial; gamefish: yes; aquarium: public aquariums
Resilience: Low, minimum population doubling time 4.5 - 14 years (tm=4-6; Fec=47,000)