Payara Vampire Fish

Hydrolycus scomberoides, the Payara or Vampire Fish, is one of the most dramatic freshwater fish available to specialist aquarists. Its most remarkable feature is the pair of elongated, sabre-like fangs on the lower jaw that project upward and fit into sockets in the upper jaw when the mouth closes — adaptations for seizing fast-moving prey fish. In the wild it inhabits large, fast-flowing rivers of the Orinoco and Amazon basins, where it hunts schools of smaller fish in powerful, swift current.

Keeping Payara in captivity is extraordinarily challenging. They require very large, strongly oxygenated, clean water tanks with powerful flow, and are sensitive to water quality deterioration. They will initially only accept live fish prey and must be carefully weaned onto dead fish or, eventually, pellets. They have a reputation for short captive lifespans if water conditions are not maintained at the highest standard.

The Payara Vampire Fish is strictly for public aquariums or extremely experienced private specialists with the resources to provide 5000+ litre aquariums. Its incredible fanged appearance and dramatic hunting behaviour make it one of the most spectacular freshwater fish on the planet. No tankmates smaller than itself should ever be kept with it.

Water: Soft, pH 5.5–7.5, 24–28°C; extremely high oxygenation and very strong current are non-negotiable. Tank: 5000 L minimum; very strong flow; minimal décor; pristine water quality maintained at all times. Feeding: Carnivore — live fish initially; wean onto fresh fish fillet and large carnivore pellets with patience. Breeding: Not documented in captivity. Compatibility: Aggressive apex predator; solo specimen only.