Boney Tongue Fish - Arapaima gigas Description: These fish are all characterized by a landing-ramp like lower jaw with barbels and large scales . The pelvic fins are well behind the pectoral fins and often skinny. The dorsal and anal fins are long and ribbon-like but the caudal fin is distinct. Arowana (Osteoglossum bicirrhosum) are the only bony tongue fish not restricted in Florida. Illustrated above, it is somewhat typical of these fish but can be distinguished by the two long barbels on the lower jaw, along with the vertical stripe through the eye and red posterior edge to the gill plate. Arapaima, which are restricted have a mosaic pattern to their scales, and although they have a large ramp-like mouth it is less distinct than for the other osteoglossids. Species: 4 genera, 7 species Range: Circumtropical in Africa, South America, Southeast Asia and Australia Habitat: Normally slow moving waters. Facilitative air breathers, so they do well in very low oxygen water. Spawning Habitats: Dig nests and protect their young Feeding Habits: Primarily piscivores but eat insects and other prey as well, adapted to attacking their prey from below. Age and Growth: Arapaima are among the largest freshwater fish reaching lengths of 14 feet and 440 pounds. Potential Concerns: All bony tongue fishes, family Osteoglossidae are restricted, except arowana (Osteoglossum bicirrhosum; illustrated above) is exempted, see photo above, due to their inability to survive temperatures below 58 degrees Fahrenheit. Back to Nonnative Restricted Fish | 
