Como identificar Arapaima

Para identificar Arapaima (Arapaima gigas), observe estas características principais.

Características físicas

Formato do corpo

torpedo

Coloração

Dorsally dark, ranging from greenish-brown to black, fading to lighter shades ventrally. The most striking feature is the reddish-orange pigmentation on the posterior flanks, caudal peduncle, and caudal fin, which intensifies with age and size. Scales are large and iridescent.

Tipo de escama

ganoid

Posição da boca

superior

Características distintivas

Large, bony, ganoid-like scales (though technically cycloid with a ganoid-like outer layer) that are extremely tough and provide armor-like protection., Obligate air-breather, possessing a modified swim bladder that functions as a lung, requiring it to surface every 5-20 minutes., Large, bony, flattened head with a wide, upturned mouth., Prominent reddish-orange coloration on the posterior body and tail., Relatively small, deeply set eyes.

Nadadeira dorsal

Long and set far back on the body, almost opposite the anal fin.

Nadadeira caudal

Rounded and powerful, often with a distinct reddish-orange margin.

Nadadeira peitoral

Relatively small and positioned low on the body.

Nadadeiras características

Pelvic fins are abdominal. All fins are generally dark, contrasting with the body coloration, especially the caudal fin's red hue.

Dicas de identificação

1. 1

   Size and Shape

   Its immense size (up to 3 meters, 200 kg) and elongated, cylindrical body are primary identifiers. No other freshwater fish in its range reaches comparable dimensions with this body plan.

2. 2

   Coloration

   The distinctive reddish-orange markings on the posterior body and caudal fin are unique to Arapaima gigas, especially in mature individuals. Younger fish may have less pronounced coloration.

3. 3

   Air-breathing Behavior

   Regularly surfaces to gulp air with a characteristic loud 'gasping' sound, a behavior not exhibited by most other large Amazonian fish.

4. 4

   Scales

   The large, tough, mosaic-like scales are easily visible and provide a unique texture and appearance.

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