Other common names
Giant Arapima. Pirarucu. Wararapaima.

Identification
Forward part of upper body with large olive green scales. Near the tail, the scales have a reddish tint with a bright red edge. Very wide back and a sloping flat head with a overshot lower jaw. Long and low dorsal and anal fins, near the tail.

Typical location
Drifting near the surface in calm water. Resting on sandy bottom with submerged plants.

Fishing methods
Casting minnow lures. Live or dead prawns, mullet, herring, telapia, catfish or fish fillet.

Fighting characteristics
Extremely powerful fighter with a fast strike followed by a endless hard pull. Despite its size, a very athletic fish, which can jump clear of the water.