Invasive arapaima threatens Brazilian river ecosystems
Arapaima, once considered extinct, has reappeared in Brazilian rivers. This is not good news, as the species threatens local ecosystems. Biologists are sounding the alarm — it is an invasive species.
Key information
- Arapaima, a large freshwater fish, was thought to be extinct 30 years ago.
- It is currently spreading in Brazilian rivers, disrupting local ecosystems.
- Biologists warn of its invasive nature and impact on local species.
Arapaima, one of the largest freshwater fish in the world, has reappeared in Brazilian rivers. Thirty years ago, it was considered extinct, but now its presence is becoming increasingly visible outside the Amazon.
Biologists from UNESP University in São Paulo are raising concerns that the arapaima has spread to areas thousands of kilometres from its natural habitats. It is already found in five Brazilian states, with its presence confirmed in Bahia, São Paulo, Minas Gerais, Mato Grosso, and Mato Grosso do Sul, in addition to Amazonas.
Lidiane Franceschini, a Brazilian biologist, warns that the arapaima, which can grow up to 2 metres in length, is destroying many endemic species and disrupting local ecosystems. Its presence can lead to a decline in populations of animals crucial to regional fisheries.
The presence of this fish can lead to a decline in animal species populations important for regional fisheries, said the expert as quoted by the Revista Planeta.
The voracious nature of the arapaima
Arapaima primarily hunts fish and crustaceans but occasionally targets amphibians, reptiles, and even birds. The concern is not only its voracity, but also the fact that natural predators are already lacking in many rivers.
The intensified presence of arapaima in Brazilian rivers outside the Amazon became particularly evident since 2022. Biologists are considering steps to minimize its negative impact on local ecosystems.
