Red-Bellied Piranha

Red-Bellied Piranhas are best kept with their own species. Avoid small or slow-moving fish that may be eaten. Maintain groups of at least 5-6 to reduce individual aggression. Provide dense hiding areas and plants. Monitor interactions and separate aggressive individuals. Ensure ample swimming space to reduce stress. Feed all fish adequately to prevent competition. Use visual barriers if needed. Avoid housing with delicate or incompatible species. Regularly check water quality to maintain health.

Red-Bellied Piranhas thrive in clean, well-maintained freshwater aquariums with stable water conditions. Keep the temperature between 24–28 °C and maintain a pH of 6.0–7.5. Water hardness should stay within GH 4–15 and KH 3–12 to support long-term health.

This species is strictly freshwater and should be kept at SG 1.000–1.003. Use strong, reliable filtration to manage their high waste output, and perform regular water changes to keep water quality high.

Provide dense plants, driftwood, or visual barriers to create hiding spots and help reduce aggression. Red-Bellied Piranhas are social fish and do best when kept in groups of at least 5–6, which helps spread aggression and lowers stress.

Leave open swimming areas so they can move freely, and observe the group daily for signs of stress or injury. Consistent care and stable conditions are key to keeping them healthy and active.

Red-Bellied Piranhas are carnivorous and need protein-rich diets. Feed live or frozen fish and shrimp. High-quality carnivore pellets can supplement diet. Feed 1-2 times daily in amounts consumed quickly. Observe feeding behavior to ensure all individuals eat. Avoid overfeeding to prevent water quality problems. Provide dietary variety to meet nutritional needs. Remove uneaten food promptly. Monitor growth and health frequently. Adjust diet as fish size increases.

Red-Bellied Piranhas breed in well-planted aquariums. Spawning occurs in shallow areas among dense vegetation. Males create nests and defend territories. Females lay eggs in the nest for fertilization. Males guard eggs and fry until independent. Provide high-protein diet to enhance spawning success. Separate fry from adults to prevent predation. Feed juveniles small live foods initially. Gradually increase food size as fry grow. Maintain optimal water parameters during breeding period.