Pygocentrus nattereri Kner, 1858

Red piranha

Species recognized by FishBase external link, R Froese & D Pauly (eds) in 
IUCN Red List Status: NOT EVALUATED external link Showing: scientific names

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Pygocentrus nattereri Kner, 1858

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Pygocentrus-nattereri
Pygocentrus-nattereri
Pygocentrus-nattereri
Pygocentrus nattereri Kner, 1858
Pygocentrus nattereri Kner, 1858
Pygocentrus nattereri Kner, 1858
Pygocentrus nattereri
Pygocentrus nattereri
Pygocentrus nattereri

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Table of Contents

General Description

Biology

Source and Additional Information
Supplier
FishBase external link
Copyright
Some rights reserved external link
Recorder
Susan M. Luna
Location
Source URL
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Citation

Common in creeks and interconnected ponds in Matto Grosso, Brazil, where it influences distribution and feeding of other fish (Ref. 9080) and in areas of high primary production in Rio Machado and Rio Negro (Ref.9096). Adults feed mainly at dusk and dawn. Feeds on insects, worms and fish (Ref. 7020). Medium-sized to large individuals (15-24 cm length) forage mainly at dawn, late afternoon and night up to about 2200H, whereas smaller fish (8-11 cm) are active mainly during the day (Ref. 9080). Teeth replacement on alternating sides of jaw allows continuous feeding. Its powerful dentition can inflict serious bites. Has a highly evolved auditory capacity and a 'lurking', then 'dashing' behavior during daytime. Shows hierarchies within small schools (Ref. 9077). Available information on body composition of 'piranha caju' flesh is 8.2% fat, 15.0% protein and 4.4% ash (Ref. 9251).
References
"Pygocentrus nattereri Kner, 1858". Encyclopedia of Life, available from "http://www.eol.org/pages/1004114". Accessed 20 Mar 2010.