Fin's Fish Guide
The Red-bellied piranha (Pygocentrus nattereri) is a freshwater fish of the family Serrasalmidae that grows up to 50 cm.
South America: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana and others
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. Can bite with sharp teeth or powerful jaws; handle with care.
Where does the Red-bellied piranha live?
The Red-bellied piranha lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. South America: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana and others
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. Piranhas can take a substantial bite with sharp teeth, especially when handling caught animals or in shallow water during the dry season. For a bite: clean with fresh water, apply firm pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing; for a deep wound seek medical assessment and check tetanus status.
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
Want the complete picture on the Red-bellied piranha?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Red-bellied piranha is one of 12,519 species in the app.