Pygocentrus nattereri
| Common Names: | Piranha Red Bellied Piranha |
| Synonyms: | Pygocentrus ternetzi |
| Family: | Characidae |
| Category: | Characins |
| Distribution: | America - South; Guyana, South America |
| Main Ecosystem: | River; River |
| Temperament: | Predatory; A Dangerous, agressive schooling fish. Only keep piranhas with other fish (including other piranhas) in a very large tank as they become intollerant of other fish in confined spaces. May bite when threatened. |
| Diet: | Carnivore; Carnivore |
| Care: | The Red Bellied Piranha will only accept meat. Flakes are rarely touched and do not provide the correct nutrition. Earthworms and beef heart will also be eaten. Do not hand feed these fish as a quick trip to the hospital may be the result. If kept with other fish, the piranha must be fed a steady supply of food. A large tank is required with some surface plants and hiding places amongst driftwood. A strong filter is recommended as the high protein diet of the piranha produces a large amount of waste. |
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| Potential Size: | Male: 30cm (11.8") Female: 30cm (11.8") |
| Water Region: | Middle; Middle |
| Activity: | Diurnal; Diurnal |
| Gender: | Difficult to determine. Females usually have a darker yellow tinge to their bodies. |
| Breeding: | Very difficult. A huge tank is required. Lower the water level and then raise it gradually with new water, prefferably using a watering can or spray bar to simulate rain. The male will defend the eggs and the female should be removed within 24 hours. Young piranhas must be fed sparingly as they often eat too much. |
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| Comments: | Use extreme caution when placing your hand in the tank. Never place your hand in the tank during feeding times, or the time of day associated with feeding. Illegal for sale and import into many countries including Australia. |
| Main Colours: | Silver, Red |
| Markings: | Spots Small |
| Mouth: | Normal |
| Tail: | Concave |
| Search: | Show similar species Find compatible species |
| Image Credit: | © FishProfiles.com |
| Submitted By: | Adam |
| Contributors: | Doedogg |
| History: | View changes to this profile |
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