With its strong jaws and razor-sharp teeth, a red-bellied piranha can easily strip its prey to the bone. Though it is capable of attacking and feeding on larger animals, the piranha’s reputation as a vicious man-eater is unwarranted. It typically eats other fish, crustaceans, and insect.
Red Pirahna
Pygocentrus nattereri
Fact File
Where to see them: Otto M. Budig Manatee Springs
Length: Up to 1 ft
Weight: 7.5 lbs
Lifespan: 8 to 10 yrs
Habitat: Rivers
Diet: Fish and aquatic invertebrates
Shoaling for Safety: Sticking close together in a group, or shoal, affords each piranha greater protection than if it were alone.
