Attention: The elevators will be down from November 15 to 27 for maintenance. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Please note: The Harbor View Café is closed for renovations until after Thanksgiving. Learn more about on-site dining options here.

Red-bellied Piranha

Pygocentrus Nattereri

Piranhas have a fearsome reputation, but most are actually vegetarians. The red-bellied piranha, which is one of the fish we care for at the Aquarium, is one of the few carnivorous piranha species.

At the Aquarium

You can find piranhas in the Amazon Rainforest exhibit in the Freshwater Gallery on level 2.

How You Can Help

Habitat loss is a major concern for piranhas due to destruction of the rainforest. Being mindful of how products are produced and packaged can help the rainforest, even from afar.

VISIT THE AQUARIUM

Animal Facts

Size

Up to 12 inches long and about three pounds

Diet

Feeds opportunistically on fish, aquatic invertebrates, crustaceans, insects, algae, and aquatic plants; may also nip at mammals and birds that swim or stand in the water

Lifespan

10+ years

Range

Lakes and rivers throughout South America

Threats to Survival

Habitat loss

FAQ

Are Red-bellied Piranhas Dangerous?

They can be! However, typically, piranhas are not dangerous to people. Amazonian natives commonly bathe in lakes or streams that these fish also inhabit. Piranhas become more of a risk in the dry season when the lower water level concentrates them within a smaller space and food becomes scarce.

Piranha Feeding

Piranhas are often misconceived as man-eating monsters, but in reality the majority of piranhas are herbivores! Join Educator Taylor and Aquarist Allison as they show you what a piranha feeding actually looks like here at the Aquarium.