Arapaima

The Arapaima, also known as Pirarucu or Paiche, is one of the largest freshwater fish in the world, native to the Amazon River Basin in South America. It is a living relic of prehistoric times, recognized for its massive size, armored scales, and ability to breathe air using a modified swim bladder.

🔍 Appearance:

• Color: Dark green to black body with a metallic sheen, and red or orange highlights along the tail and lower body.

• Body Shape: Long, torpedo-shaped with large, thick armor-like scales.

• Size: Can grow up to 3–4.5 meters (10–15 feet) in the wild; in captivity usually reaches 6–8 feet (180–240 cm).

• Weight: Can exceed 200 kg (440 lbs).

• Head: Broad, flat head with an upturned mouth.

🌊 Habitat & Behavior:

• Native Range: Amazon River and its tributaries (Brazil, Peru, Guyana).

• Habitat: Prefers slow-moving, oxygen-poor waters like flooded forests, lakes, and swamps.

• Behavior:

  • Surface dweller – surfaces to breathe every 15–20 minutes.

  • Generally calm but predatory.

  • Uses stealth to ambush prey.

🍽️ Diet:

• Carnivorous:

  • Feeds on fish, crustaceans, small mammals, and birds.

  • In captivity: accepts fish, shrimp, pellets, and meat-based foods.

• Feeding Behavior: Uses rapid suction to gulp prey—can create a loud popping sound.

🛠️ Tank Requirements (Captive Care):

• Tank Size: Massive tank or indoor pond (minimum 10,000+ liters recommended).

• Water Temperature: 24–30°C (75–86°F)

• pH Range: 6.0–7.5

• Oxygenation: Needs good surface access to breathe air.

• Tank Setup: Open swimming space, strong filtration, secure cover (strong jumper).

⚠️ Care Notes:

• Not suitable for home aquariums unless an extremely large pond is available.

• Grows rapidly and needs space to turn and swim freely.

• Can be kept alone or with other very large, non-aggressive fish.

• Long-lived—can live over 20 years in captivity.