Fin's Fish Guide
The Golden piranha (Pristobrycon aureus) is a freshwater fish of the family Serrasalmidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The Golden piranha is a piranha (Serrasalmidae) from rivers, lakes and floodplains of the Amazon and Orinoco basins in South America. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, silvery body with a powerful lower jaw full of sharp, triangular teeth. As an omnivore and group hunter it snaps at small fish, invertebrates, fruit and carrion. With its sharp teeth it can give a painful bite if handled carelessly.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Golden piranha?
The Golden 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 Golden piranha live?
The Golden piranha lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. South America: Brazil, Guyana
How big does the Golden piranha get?
The Golden piranha grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Golden piranha dangerous to humans?
The Golden piranha can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. For a bite: rinse the wound with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover it. Bite wounds easily become infected; for a deep or dirty wound see a doctor and check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pristobrycon
More from the family Serrasalmidae
Want the complete picture on the Golden piranha?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Golden piranha is one of 12,519 species in the app.