The Red-bellied piranha (Pygocentrus nattereri) is a freshwater fish of the family Serrasalmidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
The red-bellied piranha is a notorious piranha (Serrasalmidae) from fresh water of the Amazon, Orinoco and La Plata basins in South America. The species grows to about 50 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, silver-grey body with a red to orange belly, powerful jaws and sharp, interlocking triangular teeth. It lives in schools in rivers and floodplains and eats fish, invertebrates, carrion and plant material. Especially in the dry season, when guarding young or when handling caught animals it can bite fiercely; caution is advised.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Red-bellied piranha?
The Red-bellied piranha has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Red-bellied piranha live?
The Red-bellied piranha lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water.
How big does the Red-bellied piranha get?
The Red-bellied piranha grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Red-bellied piranha dangerous to humans?
The Red-bellied piranha can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans.
Is the Red-bellied piranha edible?
Yes, the Red-bellied piranha is commonly eaten.
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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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