The fish of the Amazon are extraordinary creatures from a unique and magical habitat. Learning more about them and their fascinating qualities provides a window to understanding how the sacred Amazon region lives and breathes.
The Amazon River leads from the Andes in Peru to the Atlantic Ocean in Brazil. It passes through Colombia and extends to Bolivia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Guyana, and Suriname. Around it, the Amazon forest protects life on Earth with its very existence. After navigating the Amazon River on one of his expeditions, the famous oceanographer Jacques-Yves Cousteau stated that “there are more species of fish in the Amazon than in the Atlantic Ocean.” And the fact is that the longest and most abundant river in the world also has one of the most biodiverse ecosystems: around 3,000 registered species and an unknown number yet to be cataloged coexist in its fresh waters. That’s not counting other animals such as mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and crustaceans.
Can you imagine following in Cousteau’s footsteps, touring the Amazon River but from the luxury of a floating 5-star hotel? Thanks to the Iberostar Heritage Grand Amazon, a river cruise specially designed to explore the lungs of the planet, this can be a reality. But you won’t be alone on your trip, there will be many fascinating creatures that accompany you on the way. Here we tell you more about the amazing animals of the Amazon, starting with its legendary fish.
Piranha
What types of fish are there in the Amazon? Piranhas are a group of freshwater fish classified under the ‘Characidae’ family. They can be carnivorous or omnivorous (or even, contrary to popular belief, vegetarian), always have sharp teeth, and usually measure between 6 and 10 inches in length (although some specimens can reach 13 inches). Their famed ferocity is nothing more than a defensive response when they are not in a group to protect themselves from predators as normally these fish are shy and skittish.
Pirarucu or paiche
What is the largest fish in the Amazon? Its many names are nearly as fascinating as its rare qualities. Known as pirarucu, paiche, or arapaima, this majestic creature can measure between 10 and 15 feet long. Perhaps the most amazing thing about this fish is its ability to breathe out of the water, allowing it to survive in areas with scarce vegetation and poorly oxygenated waters. The diet of these giant Amazonian fish is composed of other fish and some birds, which it hunts with great lunges to the surface. Today, the pirarucu is in danger of extinction, as sadly are many other aquatic animals.
Wolf fish
One of the most well-known large fish of the Amazon is the wolf fish or giant tararira, measuring between 4 and 5 feet long with 100 teeth in total. Its face, with curious eyes, membranes that resemble lips, and peculiar expression is reminiscent of that of some mammals, giving it its nickname. It is also carnivorous, with a diet consisting of fish, birds, and small invertebrates that fall into the river emitting a vibration that attracts it. It prefers boggy, warm, and shallow areas.
Candiru or vampire fish
The candiru or vampire fish is one of the rarest fish in the Amazon. It is also one of the fastest. Its tiny, translucent, streamlined body enters the cavities of other animals to feed on their blood. It is a type of parasite, whose small spines latch onto surfaces to feed, allowing it to survive, as it would otherwise not be able to nourish itself. Its presence, while it seems malignant, is part of the cycle of life in the Amazon and as such must be preserved: balance is only possible with biodiversity.
Electric eel
Talking about the freshwater fish of the Amazon, the electric eel cannot be missed. It has a group of specialized cells with which it emits electrical discharges of up to 850 volts. These discharges are used for communication, hunting, and defense. As its greenish skin is almost devoid of scales, it needs this extra protection. It is found mainly in rocky substrates, waterfalls, and rapids. Adapting over hundreds of years of evolution, it flows naturally with the currents.
Ocellate river stingray
Another notable rare fish of the Amazon is the ocellate river stingray or river mutt, which is less known, but just as important for the stability of the river’s ecosystem. The Amazon and other rivers, together with the seas and oceans, ensure the proper functioning of the rest of the planet’s habitats. It is therefore crucial to protect them. At Iberostar, improving and maintaining the health of our coasts and their inhabitants is a top priority. Through consistent actions that make a difference, animals like the stingray will be able to continue to live and thrive. The ocellate river stingray has a striking appearance, with a flattened, polka-dotted body, friendly black eyes, and smooth skin. It is worth stopping to take a closer look!
Other animals of the Amazon
Amazon river dolphin
How many species of fish and other animals are there in the Amazon? It is estimated that in total, the entire ecosystem is home to at least 3,000 species of fish, 100,000 species of invertebrates, 378 species of reptiles, 400 species of amphibians, 427 species of mammals, and 1,300 species of birds. One of these is the Amazon river dolphin, or pink river dolphin, an ancient creature with slightly pink skin that can only be found in this river. The legend of the pink dolphin is that it can adopt the appearance of a human being, specifically that of an attractive man who seduces the young women of nearby tribes with gifts and attention until, in love, they throw themselves into the water to be close to him for eternity.
Green anaconda
Although it moves through the water with great dexterity and can be submerged underwater for several minutes, the green anaconda is a reptile and belongs to the boa family. It is considered to be the largest snake in the American continent and the longest in the world: the female can measure up to 33 feet and weigh more than 440 pounds. It is not venomous and does not attack people unless provoked, contrary to popular belief. According to Amazonian myth, the green anaconda is the aquatic mother of all life in the Universe, as well as the protector of the waters and the beings that inhabit them.
Black caiman
The black caiman, native to Brazil, Colombia, and Bolivia, became endangered in the 1970s due to poaching for its skin. Part of its remaining population is still preserved here in the Amazon. If you are interested in exploring other ecologically interesting places in Brazil, there are other Iberostar resorts throughout the country.
Poison dart frog
Known as the ‘jewels of the rainforest’, the striking poison dart frog ranges in color from orange to red, yellow, blue, and iridescent black. Growing to only 2 inches tall, it is highly toxic, with each color pattern sending a different message to predators to deter them from attacking.
But we have still only barely scratched the surface, much more awaits you on your Amazon River cruise! An expedition departing from Manaus, Brazil will take you closer to different parts of its territory. Discover the culture of the indigenous community of Cuierira. Taste gourmet cuisine from restaurants onboard that use local products and are committed to zero mile and responsible fishing: Kuarup, Tucano Grill, or Arara Bar. Be entertained by performances on the ship, and experience the best in relaxation and wellness all with the commitment to sustainability that is characteristic of Iberostar (since 2020, all Iberostar hotels have been free of single-use plastics).
Discover the routes of the Iberostar Heritage Grand Amazon hotel and choose the room that best suits you on your unforgettable experience discovering the fish of the Amazon, the trip of a lifetime.
