New Species of Giant Fish Arapaima Discovered in Brazil

Written by:
Hans Kruit, 12 October 2013

Arapaima, one of the world’s biggest freshwater fish and the largest freshwater fish of South America, is unique among fish – it can breathe air. The largest specimens can reach more than 2.5 m in length and weigh up to 200 kg.

Arapaima is torpedo-shaped with large scales and red markings. It is streamlined and sleek, with dorsal and anal fins set back near its tail.

The newly discovered arapaima, named Arapaima leptosoma, is the first new species described since 1847.

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