Pacu
Piaractus brachypomus
FishFreshwater
- Care level
- Moderate
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Recommended tank
- 2,000 L
- Maximum size
- 90 cm
- Temperature
- 23–28 °C
- pH
- 6–7.5
- Diet
- Omnivore
Care at a glance
The pacu is a close relative of the piranha, but lives mainly on fruit, nuts and seeds that fall into the water; its molar-like teeth are visibly built for that. The problem is its size: it grows into a fish approaching a metre long and weighing tens of kilos.
That makes it unsuitable for virtually every home aquarium; it belongs in a show tank or public aquarium. Never release it into the wild and do not simply pass it on once it outgrows the tank, but contact a zoo, public aquarium or specialised rehoming service.
Good to know
Related species
Keep Pacu in the BlubHub app
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Values are mainstream hobbyist guidance, not gospel — always watch what your own animals need.