The arapaima is a tropical freshwater fish found in the Amazon and Essequibo river basins of South America. It is perhaps the largest freshwater fish and can often be found swimming near the surface in calm waters or resting along the bottom. The arapaima feeds on other fish and has been known to jump out of the water to catch small birds resting on low branches over the river.

The gills of the arapaima allow it to take in oxygen from water, however the species is an obligate air-breathing fish which means it must breathe in air to survive. For this reason, the arapaima tends to float near the surface of the water and is vulnerable to harpoon and spear fishing. The fish is listed as endangered because populations have been depleted by illegal fishing. International trade is restricted and harvesting is prohibited.

You can see these freshwater giants in the River Scout exhibit at Georgia Aquarium.

• The arapaima can grow up to 10 feet long and 441 pounds, making it perhaps the largest freshwater fish in the world.
• The arapaima will occasionally leap out of the water to catch prey.
• Approximately 47,000 eggs are laid and guarded by both parents until they hatch.
• Arapaima are not like many fish in that they have to breathe air.
• The tail of the arapaima is comprised of reddish scales with a bright red edge.

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