Black piranha

The black piranha is a large, solitary and highly predatory serrasalmid widespread across the Amazon and Orinoco basins, inhabiting deeper river channels and clear to blackwater stretches. Adults, which can approach 35 cm or more, develop dark, almost charcoal flanks and bright red eyes, and possess extremely powerful jaws. Unlike the shoaling red-bellied piranha, this species is intensely territorial and almost always kept alone, as it will attack and mutilate conspecifics and tankmates. It needs warm, soft, acidic water, dim lighting, strong filtration and a large footprint with cover from wood and plants. A pure carnivore, it feeds on fish, crustaceans and meaty prepared foods; avoid feeding mammalian meat. This is an advanced fish demanding careful handling, a secure lid, and respect for its formidable bite.