Red Bellied Piranha
Pygocentrus natterie
Currently in stock:
4 - 6" Natterie
Wholesale prices available please contact us for info!
Images of fish in stock - Click for gallery view
Fish Facts!
Pygocentrus natterei from South America. This fish is one of the most widespread species of piranha. It is found in many regions and rivers of South America, excluding Venezuela and Argentina and is commonly called the Red Belly piranha and has been bred extensively for the aquarium trade worldwide. It is one of the most usual species seen in the UK. All the Pygocentrus family can be shoaled together. They are very aggressive and will attack other species but usually not their own. Advisable to have gravel and bog wood for less stress, one of the hardier types of piranha so water quality not critical. Will grow about 1" a month. Growth size: up to 14".
Natterie Piranha Care
MINIMUM TANK SIZE
For groups of 4-6 fish, you will need a tank of at least 120x50x50 cm. (48x20x20"). Each extra fish would require an additional 6-8" in tank length, with 6 fish or more a tank depth of 60 cm (24") is recommended. Juvenile fish can be temporarily kept in smaller tanks.
TANK REQUIREMENTS
Plants, rocks or drift wood to provide hiding places, the tank lights should be dimmed. Heavy filtration is required to deal with the large amounts of waste this fish produces. A powerhead can be added to provide currents. Care is required in handling, extremely dangerous to hands.
WATER TEMPERATURE
24-29 degrees Celsius (76-84 degrees Fahrenheit).
WATER CHEMISTRY
pH should be between 6.0 - 8.0, ideally slightly acidic to neutral water: pH 6.5 - 7.2 . Soft water is preferred.
COMPATIBLE SPECIES
All Pygocentrus species can be shoaled together if well maintained.
DIET
Fish (whole, fillet or feeders*), shrimp, cockles, mussels, squid, insects, earth worms, pellets. Food items such as poultry, mammal meat and organ meat should be fed sparsely once or twice a month at the most. Meat needs to be unseasoned and trimmed of any fat. On rare occasions this species accepts vegetables, nuts seeds or fruit as well.
*Live fish need to be quarantined first, so they are safe to feed (containing no diseases or parasites). Goldfish, minnows and other members of the Cyprinid family (Carp-like fish) should be avoided, as these fish contain growth-inhibiting hormones (Thaiminase/Vitamine B1 inhibitors) that could negatively affect the fish's health and development.
SHIPMENT OF FISH
We offer a postal courier service to any part of the country so distance is not an issue and our fish are packed and transported under correct conditions, an information sheet is included on 'What to do with your Piranha'.