The arapaima, pirarucu, or paiche is any large species of bonytongue in the genus Arapaima native to the Amazon and Essequibo basins of South America. Arapaima is the type genus of the subfamily Arapaiminae within the family Osteoglossidae .

The arapaima is a massive yet sleek, streamlined freshwater fish native to the streams of the Amazon River basin. It can breathe air, allowing it to survive in pools with low water levels or decaying vegetation.

Arapaima gigas, also known simply as Arapaima, pirarucu, or paiche, [3] [4] [5] is a species of arapaima native to the basin of the Amazon River. Once believed to be the sole species in the genus, it is among the largest freshwater fish.

Arapaima are one of the largest freshwater fish species in the world, growing up to 10 feet long and weighing up to 440 pounds, though average length is about 7 feet. Native to the Amazon River Basin in South America, the ancient arapaima can be found in slow-moving rivers or floodplain lakes in Brazil, Peru and Guyana.</p>

Oct 30, 2024 · Reaching up to 10 feet (3 meters) long and weighing 440 pounds (200 kilograms), arapaima are the largest freshwater fish in South America—and an important species in the Amazon River ecosystem.

There are four recognized species of arapaima, and a there may also be a fifth separate species. Read on to learn about the arapaima. Though these fish are capable of growing to great lengths, they rarely make it to their largest size.

Also known as the paiche or the pirarucu, the arapaima is an air-breathing fish that plies the rainforest rivers of South America's Amazon Basin and nearby lakes and swamps.

Mar 10, 2024 · With its long torpedo-shaped body, distinctive scales, and reputation for reaching lengths of up to 3 meters (10 feet), the Arapaima, also known as pirarucu or paiche, has rightfully earned its majestic status. However, it is also important to highlight its significance for the aquaculture industry.

Jan 13, 2022 · Get interesting arapaima fish facts and fishing information. The arapaima also known as the pirarucu is a large, freshwater fish of the Amazon basin. It is the world’s largest species of bony fish and can reach lengths of almost 10 feet (3 meters) and weigh 440 pounds (200 kilograms).