Arapaima mapae is a rare and localized species of Arapaima found in the Mapa region of Brazil, sharing the giant size and air-breathing adaptations of its relatives.
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Arapaima mapae is a rare and localized species of Arapaima found in the Mapa region of Brazil, sharing the giant size and air-breathing adaptations of its relatives.
Long, cylindrical body with olive to black coloration, reddish-orange markings near the tail, and heavy armored scales.
15–20 years in the wild; 25 years in captivity
Carnivorous; consumes fish, aquatic invertebrates, and small vertebrates.
Arapaima mapae is a rare giant, kept only in research facilities and public aquariums. Its size and specialized care make it unsuitable for private aquarium hobbyists.
Expert only
10,000+ gallons (large ponds or aquariums only)
6.0–7.5
2–12 dGH
75–86°F (24–30°C)
8–9 feet
Other giant, non-aggressive fish like pacu or giant catfish in massive aquariums.
All smaller fish and aggressive species; not suited for typical aquariums.
Arapaima mapae
Arapaimidae
Mapa region, Brazil (Amazon Basin)
Solitary or paired in very large water systems.
Feeds on live prey, crustaceans, and large prepared foods; must be fed high-protein diet.
Egg layer; males guard nests and young.
Nests in shallow sandy or muddy substrates during the rainy season; males provide protection for eggs and fry.
pH: 6.0–7.5, Temperature: 75–86°F, Hardness: 2–12 dGH
Stress in confined tanks, external parasites, and fungal infections due to poor water quality.
Predatory, calm in large enclosures, but highly territorial in smaller spaces.
Surface-breathing predator; powerful jumper and strong swimmer; requires enormous swimming space.
Arapaima mapae is one of the rarest species in the Arapaima genus, native to the Mapa region of Brazil. Similar in size and physiology to Arapaima gigas, this species is an obligate air-breather and requires access to the surface. It is adapted to oxygen-poor waters and is characterized by its armored scales and streamlined body. Very little is known about this species in captivity, and it is almost exclusively found in scientific research or large public aquariums.