Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotfin piranha (Pristobrycon maculipinnis) is a freshwater fish of the family Serrasalmidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The Spotfin piranha is a piranha (Serrasalmidae) from rivers, lakes and floodplains of the Orinoco basin in South America. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, silvery body with a powerful lower jaw full of sharp, triangular teeth. As an omnivore and group hunter it snaps at small fish, invertebrates, fruit and carrion. With its sharp teeth it can give a painful bite if handled carelessly.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotfin piranha?
The Spotfin 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 Spotfin piranha live?
The Spotfin piranha lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. South America: Venezuela
How big does the Spotfin piranha get?
The Spotfin piranha grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Spotfin piranha dangerous to humans?
The Spotfin piranha can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. For a bite: rinse the wound with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover it. Bite wounds easily become infected; for a deep or dirty wound see a doctor and check tetanus status.
Want the complete picture on the Spotfin piranha?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotfin piranha is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pristobrycon
More from the family Serrasalmidae
Want the complete picture on the Spotfin piranha?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotfin piranha is one of 12,519 species in the app.