Arapaima gigas

ON EXHIBIT: River Giants exhibit in River Journey

FUN FACTS
This is the largest fish found strictly in fresh water. The arapaima is very unique among fish— it can breathe air! They have a very primitive lung. They can take up oxygen through their gills also but they typically live in oxygen-poor waterways and supplement with air breathing. 

CONSERVATION
Arapaima are listed as endangered fishes according to the Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species, or CITES.  This means that their trade is strictly regulated.  All arapaima on display at the Tennessee Aquarium have been acquired through confiscations by US Fish and Wildlife Service.