Author: (Schinz, 1822)
FBname: Arapaima
Comments: 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 (Ref. 50891). Migrates into higher floodplain habitats with rising water and moves back eventually to lacustrine habitats during low water level (Ref. 116898). Threatened due to over harvesting (Ref. 58490).