Pacu
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
A eminently likeable fish, but one growing to tankbuster proportions. JJPhoto.dk
Overview
Pacus are lovable “Vegetarian Piranhas” that grow to humongous sizes (up to 60 pounds; 27.5 kilograms). Most public aquariums do not have room for yet another one of these unfortunate imports; many wind up grilled “on the barbie.”Family: Characidae
Other common name(s):
- Tambaqui
Native range:
Habitat: Jungle rivers, streams and "flooded forests" in the water beneath fruit-bearing trees.
Maximum length: 108 cm (43 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 1135 L (300 gal)
Water: Freshwater 22 °C (72 °F) - 28 °C (82 °F)
General swimming level: All levels.
Feeding
Omnivore. Juveniles feed on insects, snails, zooplankton and vegetation. Adults feed heavily on fruits and other vegetable matter while living in flooded forests for several months each year.
Aquarium Compatibility
Peaceful, but a fish whose adult scale does not fit most home aquariums.
Special Care
Very disease resistant, tolerant of poor water quality and easy to keep in aquaculture conditions. Large pacu can inflict a bruising bite.
Breeding/Propagation
Widely propagated in South America for table fare.