Red-bellied Pacu
Piaractus brachypomus
Red-bellied Pacu is a South American characin often kept in aquariums and sometimes released into warm waters outside its native range. It is an omnivorous, fruit- and seed-eating fish that can grow large and is occasionally mistaken for piranha despite its blunter teeth.
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Identification points
- Deep, laterally compressed silver-gray body with a noticeable red to orange belly in mature fish
- Blunt, human-like incisors rather than the sharp triangular teeth of true piranhas
- Small adipose fin and a dark fin margin often visible on the dorsal and caudal fins
Habitat
Native to lowland Amazon and Orinoco drainages in warm freshwater rivers, floodplains, lakes, and seasonally inundated forest where it forages along margins and in flooded vegetation; introduced populations occur in warm reservoirs, canals, and slow-moving waters.
Bait notes
For anglers, use fruit-based baits such as bananas, papaya, guava, bread, corn, and dough baits; also small pellets or plant-based chum can work where legal. It is not a common gamefish in most areas, so catch rates are usually incidental or local.
Behavior
Primarily omnivorous, feeding on fruits, seeds, nuts, algae, aquatic plants, and invertebrates; juveniles are more schooling, adults are often more solitary. It responds strongly to seasonal flooding and often feeds near structure, submerged vegetation, and overhanging fruit sources.
Caution
Has strong crushing teeth and a deep body that can be hard to handle; use care when unhooking. Because it is an introduced exotic in many places, possession, transport, or release may be regulated. Consumption advisories depend on local water quality and contamination.
Fishing notes
Fish slow around warm, calm water with vegetation, fallen fruit, or brushy banks. Light to medium tackle with small hooks and short leaders helps; present baits near the surface or midwater and avoid overly aggressive retrieves. Check local rules because it may be invasive or restricted.