Red Bellied Piranha (Pygocentrus Natteri)



Fish Statistics
Minimum Tank Size:300 litres
Diet:Carnivore
Origin:South America
Temp (C):22-27 C
Max Size:30 cm
Family:Serrasalmidae
Temperament:Aggressive
pH:6.0 - 7.5
Care Level:Easy

This and other species of the genus Serrasalmus known as Piranhas are aggressive predators with extremely powerful teeth, although rare they have been shown to attack and overpower humans. Piranhas in nature act as the sanitary police as they attack and consume any weak or sick animal. Their aggressive instincts are stimulated by blood or open wounds and the accounts of animals being reduced to bones are basically true.
Although they appear quite robust, they are not an easy specimen to keep. Even in a very large aquarium an acclimated fish can suddenly become aggressive. The tails of their own species and of larger fish will be bitten off, causing possible disease threats. They can be fed worms and young specimens will take other live food as well. Their water should be soft and Acidic, with a good amount of water movement in the tank. The temperature should be in the range of 24 to 29 °C.
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