Wimple Piranha

Catoprion mento is the sole member of its genus and occupies a unique ecological niche: it is a lepidophage (scale-eater), surviving primarily by ramming into other fish and raking loose scales which it then consumes. Its mouth is angled upward and its body is laterally compressed in a way that facilitates this ambush strategy.

In captivity it must be kept alone or with fish far too large to be targeted, though persistent fin-nipping remains a risk with any tankmate. Unlike true piranhas it is relatively small, but its unusual feeding ecology means diet management in captivity requires attention: frozen and fresh fish flesh, strips of scale-on fish, and occasional live feeder invertebrates satisfy its dietary needs.

Not subject to piranha restrictions in most regions, but verify locally.

Water: 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7.0, soft to moderately soft; Amazon and Orinoco blackwater origin; tannin supplementation beneficial. Tank: Minimum 200L for a single specimen; provide floating plants and root-work for cover; secure lid required. Feeding: Carnivore; scale-on fish strips, frozen fish flesh, frozen invertebrates, and occasional whole small fish; does not readily accept dry foods. Breeding: Not documented in captivity. Compatibility: Solo housing strongly recommended; will harass and strip scales from any co-housed fish; legal status varies — verify locally.