Red-bellied Pacu

When young, the red-bellied pacu looks very much like a piranha with its red belly and silvery body, and the two are often confused in stores. Its teeth, however, are not sharp; they are shaped like human molars, suited to crushing plants, seeds and nuts. In the wild it is a giant species that can exceed 80 cm; in the aquarium it also easily reaches 50–60 cm and can live longer than 15 years. It is not suitable for a home aquarium. Releasing fish that have grown beyond what their owners can care for has caused invasive species problems in many countries; never release it into the wild under any circumstances.

• A single adult needs a tank of at least 3000 liters or a heated indoor pond.
• 24–28°C, pH 6–7.5; it is tolerant of water parameters.
• Very strong filtration; it produces a large amount of waste.
• Decor must be sturdy and secured; plants get eaten.

Omnivorous, feeding mainly on plant matter. Large granules, vegetables and fruit such as zucchini, peas and bananas, shellfish and fish meat are suitable.

Generally calm but powerful; when startled it may crash into the glass. It eats fish, snails and shrimp that fit in its mouth.

Good companions: only giant species of similar size: large plecos, large catfish (in giant aquariums).

Avoid: almost all standard aquarium fish, invertebrates, planted tanks.