Red-bellied Pacu

Piaractus brachypomus is the most widely traded pacu, second in size only to Colossoma macropomum. Its common name references the vivid scarlet ventral colouration that makes juveniles remarkably attractive, though adults become large, silver-grey fish requiring truly massive tanks. It is widely farmed for food across South America and Southeast Asia.

Like all pacus, it is a peaceful omnivore using its powerful molar-like teeth for crushing seeds, fruits, and invertebrates. It is not aggressive toward other fish but can cause injury to hands near its mouth. Keeper safety is a genuine consideration when maintaining large adults.

Juveniles are often sold irresponsibly without full disclosure of adult size; buyers must research thoroughly.

Water: 24-30°C, pH 6.0-7.5, soft to moderately hard; excellent filtration mandatory — large pacus produce enormous waste loads. Tank: Minimum 2000L for long-term adult care; public aquarium environment recommended; commercial food-fish ponds used for surplused adults. Feeding: Omnivore; fruits, vegetables, pellets, quality cichlid sticks; provide regular fresh fruit for enrichment and dental wear. Breeding: Hormone-induced spawning used in aquaculture; natural breeding in aquaria is unreported. Compatibility: Peaceful with large, robust fish; must never be purchased without a genuine commitment to providing adult-scale facilities.