Red Pacu
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Bjoertvedt" title="User:Bjoertvedt">Bjoertvedt</a> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameRed Pacu
Scientific NameColossoma brachypomum
Common NamesRed Pacu, Red-bellied Pacu
FamilySerrasalmidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco Basin
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietomnivore
Care Leveladvanced
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)500
Max Size (Inches)30
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)74-82
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesLarge Cichlids (e.g., Oscar, Green Terror), Arowana, Large Catfish (e.g., Pleco, Pangasius), Other large, robust fish
Description
Red Pacu are massive freshwater fish native to the Amazon and Orinoco basins of South America. They are known for their deep bodies, powerful jaws, and human-like teeth, which are adapted for crushing nuts and seeds. While juveniles display a red belly, this coloration often fades with age.
