Red Pacu

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Piaractus brachypomus
• Common Name: Red Pacu
• Adult Size: Up to 30 inches (75 cm) or more in captivity; even larger in the wild
• Life Expectancy: 15–25 years with proper care
• Habitat: Native to the Amazon and Orinoco River basins in South America. Found in slow-moving rivers, floodplains, and lakes with dense vegetation and submerged debris

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 250–500 gallons (950–1900 liters) or more — due to very large adult size and activity level
• Ideal Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• pH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2–15 dGH)
• Temperament: Generally peaceful, but can be skittish and may accidentally harm smaller tankmates due to size and strength. Should be kept with similarly large, non-aggressive fish

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous: Yes
• Diet: Eats fruits, vegetables, nuts, plant matter, and protein sources such as insects and shrimp. In aquariums, accepts pellets, leafy greens, nuts (in moderation), and occasional meaty foods

Appearance

• Coloration: Silver to gray body with a prominent red or reddish-orange chest and belly (especially pronounced in juveniles)
• Body Shape: Deep, laterally compressed, rounded body with a blunt snout
• Fins: Rounded and robust; pectoral and tail fins are typically dark

Distinctive Features

• Frequently mistaken for piranhas due to similar body shape, but Pacus haverounded teeth and a herbivorous tendency
• Massive growth rate, often outgrowing home aquariums quickly
• Capable of crushing hard food items like nuts and fruit shells with strong jaws

• Best suited for public aquariums or custom-built ponds — not recommended for standard home tanks