Orinoco piranha - Pygocentrus cariba

Scientific name: Pygocentrus cariba

Common name: Orinoco piranha

Family: Serrasalmidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 24 - 28 cm (9.45 - 11.02 inch)

014

Recommended pH range for the species: 6.2 - 7

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 6 - 20°N (107.14 - 357.14ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 28 °C (73.4 - 82.4°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: aggressive/territorial

Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive to smaller

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and feeding

A very easy fish to feed, Orinoco piranha will accept quality flakes or pellets but needs a varied diet. Alternate the meals with shrimps, prawns, mussels, earth worms, even prepared dog foods.

Origin

South America; Orinoco piranhas are found in the Orinoco River Basins.

Sexing

There are no visible differences between the sexes.

Breeding

As of yet, there are no reported cases of the fish breeding in the aquarium.

Lifespan

In the wild it is believed that Pygocentrus cariba can live for up to 15 years, in the aquarium their life span will be shorter.

Short description

To keep Pygocentrus cariba happy, they will need at least 15 gallons of water per specimen. To keep a group, a tank of 100 gallons will be required. Always treat these fish with respect, they are very fast movers and will soon attack your hand if placed in the tank.

Pictures

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.