Fin's Fish Guide
The Slender piranha (Serrasalmus elongatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Serrasalmidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The slender piranha is a piranha from the Amazon and Orinoco basins in South America. The species grows to about 30 cm and has an unusually elongate, silvery body for a piranha. It is specialised in nipping scales and fin tips from other fish and hunts actively in the open water column. Despite its sharp teeth it is regarded as harmless to humans; handle it with care nonetheless. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Slender piranha?
The Slender piranha has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Unusually slender piranha body; bites off scales and fin tips
Where does the Slender piranha live?
The Slender piranha lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Amazon and Orinoco basins
How big does the Slender piranha get?
The Slender piranha grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Slender piranha dangerous to humans?
No, the Slender piranha 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.
Is the Slender piranha edible?
The Slender piranha is rarely eaten.
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 Slender piranha?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Slender piranha is one of 12,519 species in the app.