Piaractus Brachypomus

Datasheet

Behaviour:

The Red-Bellied Pacu is generally peaceful with larger species but may eat small fish in the aquarium. It tends to be very active, which might bother sedentary or shy tankmates. As a shoaling species when young, it becomes more solitary as it matures. Keeping them in groups in the aquarium is possible, but this depends on the available space. In smaller tanks, adults can become a bit aggressive, chasing and nipping fins of their own kind and other species.

Feeding and Diet:

This species is primarily herbivorous, feeding on fruits, nuts, seeds, insects, zooplankton, and small fish in the wild. In captivity, it thrives on a varied diet including quality dried pellets, fruits like apple, banana, and vegetables such as spinach, peas, and carrot. Their diet contributes to the flavor of their flesh when used as a food fish, often sold on the bone similarly to pork ribs.

Reproduction & Dimorphism:

Breeding the Red-Bellied Pacu is not common in the aquarium; however, it is done for food in South America and parts of Far Eastern countries. Females are slightly rounder-bellied compared to males, distinguishing the mature sexes.

Habitat and Distribution:

These fish are native to the Rio Orinoco and Amazon basins in South American countries and have been successfully introduced in various parts of the world, particularly in Far Eastern countries. They inhabit main river channels, floodplains, and flooded forests, showing a preference for shallow, slow-moving waters with vegetation.

Aquarium Setup:

For the Red-Bellied Pacu, tank size and filtration are crucial. Decor is not essential as they are very active and tend to consume plants. Opt for sturdy decor like water-worn boulders and heavy driftwood pieces. A large, efficient biological filter is necessary due to the waste produced. Sump-type filtration systems are recommended, or large external filters with regular extensive water changes.

The information has been curated based on the provided details.