Orinoco piranha - Pygocentrus cariba

Scientific name: Pygocentrus cariba

Common name: Orinoco piranha

Family: Serrasalmidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 20 - 25 cm (7.87 - 9.84 inch)

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Recommended pH range: 6 - 7.5

Recommended water hardness: 1 - 12°N (17.86 - 214.29ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature range: 24 - 28 °C (75.2 - 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

Overview

Pygocentrus cariba (Orinoco piranha, “Caribe”) is a robust, fast-moving serrasalmid native to the Orinoco and Lake Maracaibo basins (Venezuela, Colombia). Juveniles shoal for safety, while adults form loose groups and establish hierarchies. In captivity they demand ample space, excellent filtration, and thoughtful aquascaping to disperse aggression.

Care & Tank Setup

Tank size: Single specimen ≥ 200 l / 55 gal; stable group of 6 fish ≥ 500–600 l / 132–160 gal with tank length ≥ 150–180 cm. Larger volumes markedly reduce intraspecific nipping.
Water: pH 6.0–7.5, hardness 1–12 °dGH (≈18–214 ppm), temperature 24–28 °C (75–82 °F). Keep nitrate low; maintain strong, oxygen-rich flow.
Filtration & hygiene: Oversized biofiltration, high turnover, and strict maintenance (weekly 30–50% water changes) to control nitrogenous waste.
Aquascape: Open swimming lanes with driftwood, stout branches, and hardy plants (or artificial foliage) to create sight-line breaks and multiple retreat points. Dim lighting calms skittish behavior.
Cover & lids: Tight-fitting lid is mandatory—startle jumps are common.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate carnivore and opportunistic scavenger. Offer a varied, aquatic-sourced diet to avoid fatty-liver issues associated with mammalian/avian meats.

Staples: Quality carnivore pellets/sticks, freshwater fish fillet (tilapia, pollock), shrimp/prawn, mussel, squid, earthworms.
Rotate: Krill, lancefish, insect larvae, occasional gelatin-bound DIY mixes with vitamins.
Avoid: Mammalian meats (beef heart), dog/cat foods, and routine feeder fish (pathogens, thiaminase, poor nutrition).
Feeding style: Small, frequent portions; remove leftovers immediately to preserve water quality.

Behavior & Compatibility

Conspecifics: Juveniles shoal; adults are semi-gregarious with pecking order. Provide numbers (6 ) and space to diffuse aggression; rearrange décor if one fish is targeted.
Other fish: Not community-safe. Predatory and excitable; may injure even similarly sized tankmates. Keep as species-only.
Handling: Use rigid containers when moving; never net by hand. They are extremely fast and capable of serious bites.

Sexing

No reliable external dimorphism outside of breeding condition. Males may exhibit slightly stronger body coloration (ventral flush) and proportion differences when mature, but these cues are inconsistent.

Breeding

P. cariba is a substrate/pit spawner with parental care. In very large, low-stress aquaria, pairs may clear depressions among roots or open sand, deposit adhesive eggs, and guard fry. Captive spawning is possible but uncommon and typically requires a seasoned group, excellent condition, and seasonal cues (temperature and water-level changes).

Lifespan

Typically 10–15 years in captivity with proper care; outliers may exceed this. Long lifespan underscores the need for spacious, stable systems and responsible ownership.

Origin

South America: Orinoco River drainage and the Lake Maracaibo basin (Venezuela & Colombia).

Notes & Ethics

Check local regulations—some regions restrict piranha possession or transport.
Avoid sensationalism (feeding frenzies, live prey). Prioritize welfare, water quality, and stable social structure.