Red Pacu

Common name(s) Red Pacu, Red-bellied pacu, Pirapitinga Picture of Red Pacu

Scientific name Piaractus brachypomus

Synonyms Colossoma brachypomus (not valid)

Size Up to 35" (88cm)

Origin South America: Amazon and Orinoco River basins.

Tank setup A very large tank, of more than 300 gallons.

Compatibility Usually fairly peaceful for its size, other 'tankbuster' fish can be kept.

Temperature 22-26^oC (72-79^oF)

Water chemistry Acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.0), but not critical

Feeding Omnivore, will eat most larger foods.

Sexing Unknown

Breeding Unlikely in aquaria

Comments This species is quite commonly found for sale as small juveniles, but can only be accommodated long-term in the largest of home aquaria. Do not be tempted to purchase this fish unless you can provide for its needs as an adult - fish stores will not be keen to take in semi-adult fish, and public aquaria are frequently inundated with requests to house unwanted Pacu.
These fish may be mis-labelled as Red-bellied piranha, and vice versa, as the juveniles are similar but can be distinguished by the jaw shape in particular.

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This website was last updated on 18th January 2008

Common name(s)	Red Pacu, Red-bellied pacu, Pirapitinga
Scientific name	Piaractus brachypomus
Synonyms	Colossoma brachypomus (not valid)
Size	Up to 35" (88cm)
Origin	South America: Amazon and Orinoco River basins.
Tank setup	A very large tank, of more than 300 gallons.
Compatibility	Usually fairly peaceful for its size, other 'tankbuster' fish can be kept.
Temperature	22-26^oC (72-79^oF)
Water chemistry	Acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.0), but not critical
Feeding	Omnivore, will eat most larger foods.
Sexing	Unknown
Breeding	Unlikely in aquaria
Comments	This species is quite commonly found for sale as small juveniles, but can only be accommodated long-term in the largest of home aquaria. Do not be tempted to purchase this fish unless you can provide for its needs as an adult - fish stores will not be keen to take in semi-adult fish, and public aquaria are frequently inundated with requests to house unwanted Pacu. These fish may be mis-labelled as Red-bellied piranha, and vice versa, as the juveniles are similar but can be distinguished by the jaw shape in particular.