1. Introduction
【Child】: When I heard about the Arapaima, I thought of Gulliver’s travels to Lilliput, where the creatures grow enormous compared to the tiny inhabitants there. What kind of wondrous creature is an Arapaima?
【Professor】: Ha-ha, your comparison to Gulliver’s travels is quite intriguing! The Arapaima is a fascinating and unique fish that is one of the largest freshwater species in the world. In this conversation, we’ll learn about their characteristics, habitats, husbandry requirements, behavior, breeding, and coexistence with other fish species.
2. Characteristics
【Child】: Is the Arapaima like a mythical dragon with shimmering scales and an imposing presence that can command the waters of the aquatic world?
【Professor】: You have quite an imagination! While not exactly a mythical dragon, the Arapaima is indeed an impressive creature. They can grow up to 10 feet long and weigh over 400 pounds. Their body is elongated and covered in large, thick scales that shimmer in red and green hues, providing a mesmerizing appearance.
3. Habitat
【Child】: If they were part of Poseidon’s kingdom, where would they reside? And, being such magnificent creatures, would they have a significant impact on the surrounding marine world?
【Professor】: The Arapaima would indeed be among Poseidon’s prize possessions! They are native to the Amazon Rainforest’s rivers and swamps in South America. They play an essential role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem by controlling the population of smaller fish and invertebrates. In an aquarium setting, they require a large space with plenty of hiding spots and proper water conditions to mimic their natural environment.
4. Husbandry Requirements
【Child】: In order to offer tribute to these marvelous fish, what kind of underwater palace must we create to befit their grandeur?
【Professor】: Creating an underwater palace that fits the Arapaima’s grandeur would undoubtedly require a large tank of at least 5000 gallons, as they need ample space to swim and grow. Maintain a water temperature of 75-82°F and keep the water quality stable with a pH of 6-7 and moderate hardness. As for their feast, they prefer a carnivorous diet that includes small fish, shrimp, and other meaty foods.
5. Behavior
【Child】: Do these aquatic giants hold court in their watery domain, ruling over other creatures with their commanding presence?
【Professor】: The Arapaima indeed have a powerful presence in the water. They are solitary and territorial, which means they don’t swim in groups and prefer to have a domain of their own. These giants are also known for their gulping behavior, in which they come to the surface to gulp air, using a modified swim bladder as a lung-like organ.
6. Breeding
【Child】: How do these enchanting aquatic beings continue their lineage, and what kind of environment do they require to bring forth their progeny?
【Professor】: Breeding Arapaimas is a fascinating process. The male Arapaima takes on the responsibility of nest-building, and after the female lays the eggs, the male guards the nest and even incubates the eggs in his mouth. To create a breeding environment, you’ll need a large, shallow tank with a sandy substrate and enough hiding spots for the female to lay her eggs safely.
7. Cautions
【Child】: Would placing a mere mortal fish among these legendary creatures result in a tragic fall, much like Icarus?
【Professor】: Indeed, like Icarus flying too close to the sun, placing smaller fish in the same tank as Arapaima could be a perilous venture. Considering their carnivorous diet and territorial nature, it’s best not to mix them with smaller or vulnerable fish species.
8. Conclusion
【Professor】: So, my young philosopher, we’ve explored the wonders of the Arapaima – their striking characteristics, habitat, care requirements, behaviors, breeding, and cautionary tales of coexistence. These magnificent creatures truly are a marvel of the aquatic world and make for an impressive display in the right environment.