Pirarucu – (Arapaima gigas) – from the Tupi piraru’ku, red fish). The largest Brazilian scaled fresh water fish and possibly the largest in the world. This fish is very tasty, rivaling cod. Almost boneless, (only backbone and ribs), it is a meaty fish and is separated into two large flaps which, salted and dried in the sun, are sold at the open-air markets, exported and even smuggled. It is widely consumed by the populace and in hotels. It is also eaten fresh, fried, baked, and in the form of fish croquettes. Its bony tongue is used to grate the guaraná cake. Its scales are used as exotic, but very efficient nail files, and are also used to make hand crafted products.