If you're thinking about adding an Arapaima to your collection, you've got bold taste. This massive freshwater predator isn’t just eye-catching; it demands respect, space, and serious care. At Monster Aquarium, the best fish store in Flushing, NYC, we work with hobbyists who want to go big. Literally. But before you bring one of these giants home, it’s important to understand what you’re getting into.
Let’s break down the essentials of owning an Arapaima fish, from tank size to feeding habits.
How Big Does an Arapaima Get?
Short answer: huge. These fish can grow up to 8 feet long in the wild, though captive ones typically max out around 4 to 6 feet. Even then, that’s way larger than most freshwater fish. Young Arapaima may start small, but don’t let that fool you. They grow fast and eat often.
If your setup isn’t prepared for that kind of growth, things can get dangerous for both the fish and your tank.
Tank Size and Setup: Think Like a Zoo
An Arapaima isn’t a fish for your average home aquarium. You’re looking at a custom tank or indoor pond of at least 1,000 gallons for one juvenile, with much more space needed as it matures. These fish need room to swim and turn, plus heavy-duty filtration to keep the water clean.
On top of that, Arapaima fish breathe surface air, so your tank should have plenty of surface area and be uncovered, but protected. They’re known to jump or thrash, especially when startled.
If you’re hunting for setup advice or quality equipment, our Arapaima fish store in NYC can help you get started the right way.
Arapaima Behavior: Calm but Powerful
While they’re not aggressive without reason, Arapaima are still predatory fish. They can get territorial and will swallow smaller tankmates whole. Some owners try to keep them with other large species, but compatibility is hit or miss. Even fish the same size might get injured just from a random burst of energy or rough feeding.
So, if you’re planning to add an Arapaima to a mixed tank, you’ll need to choose companions carefully or go with a solo setup.
Feeding an Arapaima: Meat-Lovers Only
These fish are carnivores through and through. In the wild, Arapaima eat fish, crustaceans, and even birds that fall into the water. At home, they’ll thrive on a diet of:
- Frozen fish (like smelt or tilapia)
- Shrimp
- Pellets designed for large carnivores
- Occasionally live food (if appropriate and humane)
Feeding needs change as they grow, so you'll need to adjust quantity and frequency over time. Overfeeding can mess with water quality fast, so watch out for uneaten food.
At Monster Aquarium, we’ll guide you through a proper feeding plan to keep your Arapaima healthy and active.
Where to Find Arapaima Fish in NYC
Not every shop can handle fish like this, but we’ve got you covered. Monster Aquarium is your go-to Arapaima fish store in NYC. We specialize in rare and monster fish, and we know how to help you choose the right fish for your space, experience level, and goals. We don’t just sell fish, we help you raise them right.
Thinking about adding an Arapaima to your tank? Come talk to us at Monster Aquarium. As the best fish store in Flushing, NYC, we’re here to help you make bold choices, and keep those choices thriving. Whether you're upgrading your tank or buying your first monster fish, we’ve got the gear, the guidance, and the fish to make it happen.
FAQs
1. Can I keep an Arapaima in a regular tank?
No. A regular tank is way too small. These fish need hundreds of gallons at the very least and grow faster than most people expect.
2. Are Arapaima aggressive toward humans?
Not usually, but they’re strong. If they feel threatened or cornered, they can thrash and cause injury. Use caution during feeding and maintenance.
3. Can I keep more than one Arapaima together?
It's risky. Juveniles might get along, but adults often become territorial. If you're planning on more than one, you’ll need expert advice and a massive tank.
4. How often should I feed my Arapaima?
Younger fish eat daily, while adults can be fed every other day. Pay attention to appetite and behavior, and don’t let food sit and rot in the water.
5. What’s the biggest challenge of keeping an Arapaima?
Space and maintenance. They need clean water, strong filtration, and room to move. Without that, health problems and tank damage are almost guaranteed.