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Description
National Zoo, Washington DC
Arapaima

Information from [link]

The arapaima, piracucu, pirarucu, or paiche, Arapaima gigas, is the world's largest freshwater fish. The species is reported to reach lengths in excess of 3 m (9.8 ft.) and weigh up to 200 kg (440 lb), although these reports have been disputed. As one of the most sought after fish species in South America, it is often captured by spearing for export, and, consequently, large arapaima of more than 2 m are seldom found today.

The diet of the arapaima 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.

Description
National Zoo, Washington DC
Arapaima

Information from [link]

The arapaima, piracucu, pirarucu, or paiche, Arapaima gigas, is the world's largest freshwater fish. The species is reported to reach lengths in excess of 3 m (9.8 ft.) and weigh up to 200 kg (440 lb), although these reports have been disputed. As one of the most sought after fish species in South America, it is often captured by spearing for export, and, consequently, large arapaima of more than 2 m are seldom found today.

The diet of the arapaima 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.