Fin's Fish Guide
The Black piranha (Pygocentrus piraya) is a freshwater fish of the family Serrasalmidae that grows up to 38 cm.
Description
The Black piranha is a true piranha (Serrasalmidae) from fresh water of the Sao Francisco basin in Brazil. The species grows to about 38 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, silvery body with powerful jaws full of razor-sharp, triangular teeth. It is one of the largest true piranhas, with a red to orange belly. As a schooling predator it hunts fish, crustaceans and carrion in rivers and bites chunks of flesh from prey with its sharp teeth. Attacks on humans are rare, but the bite can inflict a serious wound; handle with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black piranha?
The Black piranha has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey. Can bite with sharp teeth or powerful jaws; handle with care.
Where does the Black piranha live?
The Black piranha lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. South America: Brazil
How big does the Black piranha get?
The Black piranha grows to a maximum of about 38 cm.
Is the Black piranha dangerous to humans?
The Black piranha can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. Keep fingers and toes away from the mouth; the piranha has razor-sharp, triangular teeth and can take out a chunk of flesh. For a bite: rinse the wound with clean water, apply firm pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing; always have a deep wound assessed medically and check tetanus status.
Is the Black piranha edible?
Yes, the Black piranha is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pygocentrus
More from the family Serrasalmidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black piranha is one of 12,519 species in the app.