Fin's Fish Guide
The Lobetooth piranha (Pygopristis denticulata) is a freshwater fish of the family Serrasalmidae that grows up to 22 cm.
Description
The Lobetooth piranha is a true piranha (Serrasalmidae) from fresh water of the Amazon, Orinoco and Guiana region in South America. The species grows to about 21 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, silvery body with powerful jaws full of razor-sharp, triangular teeth. It has lobe-shaped teeth and is less predatory than other piranhas, with a more mixed diet. 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 Lobetooth piranha?
The Lobetooth 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 Lobetooth piranha live?
The Lobetooth piranha lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America: Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, Venezuela
How big does the Lobetooth piranha get?
The Lobetooth piranha grows to a maximum of about 22 cm.
Is the Lobetooth piranha dangerous to humans?
The Lobetooth 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 Lobetooth piranha edible?
Yes, the Lobetooth piranha is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Serrasalmidae
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