Colossoma macropomum
Origin: Amazon and Orinoco basins, South America
Colossoma macropomum, the Pacu, is the giant vegetarian cousin of the piranha from the Amazon basin. It feeds on fallen fruits and nuts using distinctive humanoid teeth that can crush hard shells. Grows to 80+ cm and 30+ kg — one of the largest scaled freshwater fish. Often sold small but needs a commercial-scale tank. Highly intelligent and personable; keepers form bonds with individual fish. A serious, long-term commitment. Only suitable for public aquariums or private keepers with extremely large systems.
2,000+ L tank required for adults. Temperature 24–28 °C. Feed fruit (guava, papaya, banana), vegetables, large sinking pellets. Very strong — will break glass if panicked. Peaceful but enormous. Rehoming very difficult — please research before purchasing.
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