Piranha
The Piranha is often given a bad reputation as being a blood thirsty fish that will strip an animal or person caught in their waters to the bone. The Piranha is native to south America. It is unknown how many types of Piranha exist but estimates vary between 30 and 60 types.
A mature piranha can grow extremely large, although this is unlikely to happen in an aquarium. The typical species of piranha found in aquariums typically grow to no more than 14cm in length. Some individuals will grow up to 30cm. A piranha can live between four and fourteen years depending on the type. Piranhas have often been given a bad press and portrayed on movies as blood thirsty animals. The truth is that a piranha is very unlikely to attack a large creature or person, unless they feel threatened. For example during breeding season when piranhas are protecting their breeding ground then they can become aggressive. A large creature which disturbes their waters is likely to be bitten in order to protect the piranhas young.
Piranhas will need to be kept in a heated aquarium preferably at a temperature of 26 degrees centigrade. It is important to remember that the higher the temperature the water is, the less dissolved oxygen there will be in the water. Piranhas will thrive in soft, acidic water with a PH reading of 6.5. Bogwood is a great addition to a piranha aquarium because it will help to control the acidity of the water. Regular water testing is essential when looking after this fish.
Piranhas like to have room to move so it is recommended to give them plenty of swimming space in the aquarium. At least 100 liter aquarium is required when looking after piranhas. The piranha will often squabble amongst themselves and will do well in an uneven number shoal. It is also a good idea to add all of the piranhas at the same time to avoid any territorial disputes. It is important to make sure that the filtration system is adequate for the size aquarium and that it is maintained on a regular basis. Piranhas will not tolerate dirty water. Weekly water changes are also required.
Piranhas should be fed a varied diet and they will generally eat most foods presented to them. It is important to offer them a suitable food for carnivorous fish and there are many good frozen foods on the market at the moment.
Piranhas should be fed a varied diet and they will generally eat most foods presented to them. It is important to offer them a suitable food for carnivorous fish and there are many good frozen foods on the market at the moment.
Piranhas are quite shy fish and will need plenty of hiding spaces to make them feel safe. If a piranha gets stressed this will weaken its immune system and leave it open to illness. Piranhas do not like bright lighting so research suitable lighting before purchasing any. Many fish keepers will keep plants that float on the surface helping to create a darker tank environment. A piranha should only be kept in a species tank otherwise it may harass the other tank inhabitants.
The piranha is a truly beautiful graceful fish, although a little more challenging to look after than other fish species.
The piranha is a truly beautiful graceful fish, although a little more challenging to look after than other fish species.
