Back to species
Species profile

Red-bellied Piranha

Pygocentrus nattereri

Red-bellied Piranha (Pygocentrus nattereri) aquarium profile: minimum 125 gallon tank, 12 inch adult size, 74-82°F temperature range, and advanced care. Keep a group of at least 6.

TerritorialFin-nipperHigh energyAdvanced care
Red-bellied Piranha aquarium fish
125 galMinimum tank
12 inAdult size
6Schooling minimum
74-82°FTemperature

Water Range

pH
6-7.5
GH
2-15 dGH
KH
1-8 dKH

Behavior

Temperament
Assertive
Fin nipping
5/5
Territory
4/5

Diet and Care

Diet
carnivore
Diet difficulty
4/5
Care difficulty
4/5

Planning Notes

Predatory or specialist fish; plan for adult size, secure lids, and meaty feeding needs.

This species may need live, frozen, fresh, or otherwise specialized foods.

live or fresh foodspecialized dietpredatory feedingescape risklarge adult sizehigh bioloadassertive or territorial
Check a tank plan

Use the checker before adding Red-bellied Piranha to compare tank size, cycle status, cover, and tankmates.

Open checkerAquarium guides

Read setup, cycling, stocking, and care guides before buying fish.

Browse blogs