Dourado

Salminus brasiliensis, the Dourado or Golden Dorado, is arguably the most famous freshwater sport fish in South America. Its brilliant golden-yellow body, powerful musculature, and aggressive piscivorous behaviour have made it an icon of the Paraná, Uruguay, and Paraguay rivers. It is an apex predator capable of exceeding 1 metre in length and over 30 kg in weight, and it is one of the most demanding large fish that can be legally kept in specialist aquaria.

The Golden Dorado requires an extremely large aquarium — several thousand litres minimum — with very clean, cool to moderately warm water and strong oxygenation. It is intolerant of poor water quality and requires pristine conditions to remain healthy. Any live fish in the same aquarium of suitable swallowable size will be consumed; it is best maintained as a solo specimen in an aquarium designed around its needs.

Feeding should consist of large whole fish or fish fillets, with high-quality large carnivore pellets as a supplement once weaned. Salminus brasiliensis is strictly for public aquarium collections or the most serious private specialists. Its maintenance as a private aquarium species is controversial due to its wild population concerns in some regions, and source of origin should be verified with reputable importers.

Water: Moderately soft, pH 6.5–8.0, 18–26°C; prefers slightly cooler than most tropical fish; very high oxygenation. Tank: 5000 L absolute minimum; bare or minimal décor; extremely robust construction and filtration. Feeding: Carnivore — whole fish, fish fillet, large carnivore pellets; feed sparingly due to size. Breeding: Not feasible in captivity; migratory spawner. Compatibility: Apex predator; solo specimen only.