Red-bellied Pacu

Looks how to spot one

Large, deep-bodied serrasalmid with molar-like teeth

A big, heavy, disc-shaped fish with strong jaws and flat, crushing teeth that look surprisingly like human molars. The sides are silvery and darken toward the back, with red on the belly, chin and front fins. Young fish copy the look of red-bellied piranhas; adults lose much of the bright red.413

Personality what they are like

Generally peaceful toward fish too large to swallow. Young fish shoal, while adults become more independent. Its strong swimming can unsettle shy tankmates.34

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A strong, active swimmer that needs very large swimming space throughout its life.3

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Grows to well over half a metre, so plan for the adult size before buying: very large tanks or heated indoor ponds with powerful filtration and frequent water changes.3

Home where they are happiest

A very large aquarium or pond, at least 300 x 90 cm footprint (about 2,430 litres). Water 23-28 C, pH about 4.8-7.5, hardness 0-15 dGH.32

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Mainly eats fruit, nuts and seeds in the wild, plus insects, crustaceans and small fish when available. In captivity feed quality pellets with vegetables (spinach, peas, courgette, carrot) and fruit (apple, banana, grapes).134

Company who they like around

Juveniles do well in groups; adults are fine alone or with other big, robust fish such as large cichlids, arowanas and large catfish.3

The story where it all began

Georges Cuvier described this species in 1818. In South America it has long been an important food fish, and it is now widely farmed and sport-fished there and in Asia. It reached the aquarium trade as small juveniles, often sold as a 'vegetarian piranha'.123

Recognised by the official bits

IUCN Red List

Assessed as Least Concern (December 2020)2

Legal status

Sale is banned in many US jurisdictions; check local rules before buying3