Fishician®Diet
Omnivore/Herbivore – pellets, fruit, nuts, vegetables, occasional protein
Aquarium species profile
Pacu
Piaractus brachypomus / Colossoma macropomum · South America (Amazon and Orinoco basins)
Minimum tank500+ gal (or pond)
Adult size24–36"
Care levelHard
TemperamentSemi-Aggressive
Temperature76–82°F
pH range6.5–7.5
Compatible tank mates
Other large robust fish; Arowanas, large Plecos, large catfish
Tank mates to avoid
Small fish, delicate plants
Care notes
Often sold small but grows enormous. Frequently surrendered or illegally released. Has human-like teeth used to crush nuts. Related to piranha.
Check the whole aquarium. Tank size alone does not establish compatibility. Confirm adult size, water overlap, social grouping, territory, diet, and the individual animals before stocking.