Black spot piranha

Pygocentrus cariba

A prominent shoulder spot distinguishes the visible adult form

The spot is clearest in adolescents and young adults; tiny juveniles and dark old fish are harder to identify by colour.

Natural habitat: Widespread in lowland waters and tributaries of the Orinoco basin.

Sharp jaws and adult size require a dedicated maintenance plan.

Appearance and identification

P. notatus is an older name, not another species. Compare age and provenance alongside P. nattereri.

Lives in groups.

Needs an exceptionally large installation with filtration, protected equipment and retreat space.

An opportunistic feeder taking animal foods and some plant material.

Fin-biting risk; keep in a dedicated setup.

Plants may be damaged.

Sources