Fin's Fish Guide
The Piava (Leporinus obtusidens) is a fish of the family Anostomidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The Piava is a headstander characin (Anostomidae) from fresh water of the Parana, Paraguay and Uruguay basins in South America. The species grows to about 40 cm and has an elongate, silvery to yellow-brown body with three large dark blotches on the flank and a small mouth with prominent incisor teeth. Characteristically it often holds itself at an angle, head down, among water plants and wood and eats algae, water plants, fruit and small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Piava?
The Piava is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Piava live?
The Piava is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Piava get?
The Piava grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Piava dangerous to humans?
No, the Piava is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Piava?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Piava is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Leporinus
More from the family Anostomidae
Want the complete picture on the Piava?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Piava is one of 12,519 species in the app.