Fin's Fish Guide
The Wimple piranha (Catoprion mento) is a freshwater fish of the family Serrasalmidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The wimple piranha is a remarkable small characin from fresh water of the Amazon and Orinoco basins of South America. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a deep, silvery, strongly laterally compressed body with a far-projecting lower jaw full of small, sharp teeth. Remarkably, it is a scale eater: it sneaks up on larger fish and bites off scales with its teeth, which it eats. Because of these sharp teeth it can bite when handled. The fish appears in the aquarium hobby. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Wimple piranha?
The Wimple piranha has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Protruding toothed lower jaw; scale eater that can bite sharply
Where does the Wimple piranha live?
The Wimple piranha lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Amazon and Orinoco basins
How big does the Wimple piranha get?
The Wimple piranha grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Wimple piranha dangerous to humans?
The Wimple piranha can cause injury; handle it with care. The sharp teeth can give a painful bite when handled. Clean any bite wound thoroughly, stop the bleeding and seek medical help for a deep wound.
Is the Wimple piranha edible?
The Wimple piranha is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Serrasalmidae
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