White Piranha Care Guide
Serrasalmus rhombeus, the redeye piranha, is a solitary predator from the Amazon and Orinoco basins with one of the strongest bites among fish.
Overview
Serrasalmus rhombeus, the redeye or black piranha, is the type species of its genus. It is a solitary predator widely distributed across northern South America. Coloration varies with water type, with paler fish in turbid waters and darker fish in clear or blackwater environments.
Taxonomy
- Family: Serrasalmidae
- Genus: Serrasalmus
- Scientific name: Serrasalmus rhombeus
- Order: Characiformes
Habitat
The species occurs in the Amazon and Orinoco drainages, the Essequibo and other Guiana Shield rivers, and coastal rivers of northeastern Brazil. Adults favour larger, deeper river channels and the vicinity of rapids, while juveniles use stiller, densely vegetated areas.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 500 L
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7.5
- GH: 4-18 °dGH
- Lifespan: 10-20 years
Diet
Serrasalmus rhombeus is an opportunistic carnivore. It eats fish, insects, fallen fruit and plant matter, and also takes scales and fins from other fish and feeds on carcasses in the river. FishBase places it at a trophic level around 4.0. In captivity it is fed meaty foods two times daily.
Compatibility
This is not a sociable species and normally lives solitarily as an adult. It is highly aggressive and should be housed alone; all other fish are at risk and should be avoided as tankmates.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern. The species remains widespread despite commercial fishing and aquarium-trade pressure.