Red Belly Piranha Care Sheet: Supplied by forum member Fish_geek

Scientific name: Pygocentrus naterreri

Native to the Amazon River and various sections of South America

Max Size: 16”

(over 12” is rare)

Minimum tank size:

For 3 or 4 Piranhas, at least 60 gallons; any more than that, add 15 gallons for each additional fish

Water Conditions

Freshwater

Temp range: 76-84 degrees F

PH tolerable between 6.0 and 8.0; 6.5 to 7.4 range is ideal; soft water preferred

Temperament

Shy and skittish, very territorial, can become very aggressive

Does not like bright light

Provide hiding spots

Compatibility

Schooling fish

Most active and healthy in groups of own kind

Tankmates: other Red Belly Piranhas

Diet

(Variety is important for digestive health)

Live fish (feeder guppies are best, also goldfish and rosies)

Raw fish fillet, uncooked peeled shrimp, mussels, squid

Insects, earthworms

Pellet and flake food

(If you feed raw meat do it very sparingly and remove fat first.

Piranhas also will occasionally accept fruits, nuts or vegetables).

Feeding

Daily feeding is unnecessary

How often to feed is a matter of the particular Piranha’s appetite

Feed young Piranhas more often than adults

Feed only until bellies are round – do NOT overfeed

Sexing

Both sexes are identical

Usually you can only tell them apart if they pair off to breed

If you have more questions about this type of animal or just want to connect to other people with the same interests as you then visit our forums here.