Arapaima
From Freepedia
| Arapaima Conservation status: Data deficient | ||||||||||||||||
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| Image:Arapaima gigas.jpg | ||||||||||||||||
| Scientific classification | ||||||||||||||||
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| Arapaima gigas (Cuvier, 1829) |
The Arapaima (Arapaima gigas), also known as the Piracucu or Paiche, is one of the world's largest freshwater fish (the current weight record for a freshwater fish was taken in 2005 by a Giant Mekong Catfish, at 646 lbs, but Arapaima is longer). The species can reach lengths of up to 14.75 feet (4.5 m) and weigh up to 440 lbs (200 kg). As one of the most sought after fish species in South America it is often captured by spearing for export, and, consequently, large Arapaima are seldom found today.
The Arapaima has also been introduced for fishing in Thailand and Malaysia. It is also considered an aquarium fish, although it obviously requires a large tank and ample resources.
The diet of A. gigas consists of other fish or even small animals, including birds. This fish is able to survive extensive drought periods by gulping air and burrowing in the mud or sand of the swamps.
The tongue of this fish is known to have medicinal qualities in South america. It is dried and combined with Guarana bark which is grated and mixed into water. Doses of this are given to kill intestinal worms.
In the Gamecube videogame, Animal Crossing, the Arapaima is a rare catch.
