These large, narrow fish are well-adapted to move between aquatic plants. Sometimes known as the “vegetarian piranha,” the red-bellied pacu has square, straighter teeth like those of humans, which are primarily used to cut through vegetation in the water.
ORIGIN:
South America
HABITAT:
River basins, flood plains
HEIGHT/WEIGHT:
55 lbs
Length: Up to 3 ft
DIET:
Fruit, nuts and insects
PREDATORS:
Black caiman
NATURAL DEFENSES:
Can adjust to unfavorable conditions like depleted oxygen levels
REPRODUCTION:
Breeding occurs in annual cycles with the onset of the wet season
THREATS:
Commercial fishing
LIFE EXPECTANCY:
15-25 yrs in human care
Please note, the Zoo will close at 1PM on Saturday, November 8 so we can prepare for this event. Last admission will be 11:30 AM.
Last Admission: 11:30 AM
