Fin's Fish Guide
The Goulding's piranha (Serrasalmus gouldingi) is a freshwater fish of the family Serrasalmidae that grows up to 28 cm.
Description
The Goulding's piranha is a piranha (Serrasalmidae) from fresh water of the Amazon and Orinoco basins in South America. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, silvery body with a powerful lower jaw full of sharp, triangular teeth. The body is silvery with a dark cast and a red to orange throat. It hunts and scavenges in shoals on fish, insects and pieces of flesh. When handled carelessly or cornered it can give a fierce, slicing bite; handle caught animals with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Goulding's piranha?
The Goulding's 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 Goulding's piranha live?
The Goulding's piranha lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America: Brazil, Venezuela
How big does the Goulding's piranha get?
The Goulding's piranha grows to a maximum of about 28 cm.
Is the Goulding's piranha dangerous to humans?
The Goulding's piranha can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. A piranha bite causes a deep, sharply edged cut. Rinse the wound with clean water, apply firm pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. For a deep or extensive wound seek medical care, have it sutured if needed, update tetanus protection and watch for signs of infection.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Serrasalmus
More from the family Serrasalmidae
Want the complete picture on the Goulding's piranha?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Goulding's piranha is one of 12,519 species in the app.