Piranhas are a species of fish famous for their aggressiveness, which in fact have been the protagonist of different fiction movies. If you are thinking of keeping piranhas in an aquarium, you should know that there are certain species that can be kept in this way. Of course, always bearing in mind that these are exotic animals and may require special care.
Piranhas belong to the Characidae family, as do other species such as anchovies and leerfish. These are freshwater fish that inhabit the waters of many rivers in South America. In general, a piranha can measure up to thirty centimeters, both in the wild and in captivity.
Piranhas in an aquarium: Species
There are some recommended species of piranhas that you can keep in a home aquarium. Remember that not all piranhas are suitable for domestic environments. However, it is important to know that the aggressive behavior of piranhas happens when they are hungry. This occurs because some species have neurotransmitters in their brains that cause them to attack everything when they are hungry. In a controlled environment, with regular food, they can be perfectly calm.
Some of the most recommended species of piranhas in an aquarium may be the following:
- Red piranha (Pygocentrus nattereri): The red piranha is one of the most common piranha species in aquariums. They are known for their vibrant red color and aggressive behavior. They should be kept alone or in large groups to reduce aggression between them.
- Black piranha (Serrasalmus rhombeus): Black piranhas are another species occasionally found in aquariums. They are carnivorous and can be territorial and aggressive, so they require a suitable tank and an appropriate diet.
- Red-bellied piranha (Pygocentrus altus): They are similar in appearance to red-bellied piranhas, but may differ in color and size. They are also known for their aggressive nature and should be kept in large groups or alone.
- Spotted piranha (Serrasalmus spilopleura): These piranhas are smaller compared to some other species, but are still carnivorous and can be territorial. A suitable aquarium is required for their care.
What a piranha needs
It is critical to research and understand the specific needs of any species of piranha before considering keeping them in an aquarium. Also, be aware that in some places there are legal restrictions on piranha possession due to their reputation for being dangerous. It is always important to comply with local regulations and make sure you are prepared to properly care for these creatures before considering keeping them as pets in an aquarium.
For example, the aquarium should be the right size for swimming and exploring. A tank of at least 50-75 gallons is recommended for a single piranha. If you have a group, you will need to increase the size of the aquarium.
It is also important to include shelters and hiding places such as caves and rocks in their habitat. The lighting should be dim. In addition, piranhas are carnivorous and need a diet rich in protein. Feed them a variety of live or frozen foods.
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