Black-finned Pacu
Alternative Name(s):
Scientific Name(s): Colossoma macropomum
Category: Tropical
Difficulty:
Maximum Size: 100cms
Minimum Tank Volume: 0 litres
Minimum Tank Size: 10ft x 3ft x 3ft
Water Temperature Range: 22-28°C
Water pH Range: 5.5-7.5
Water Hardness Range: 1-15 dGH
General Information: Native to the Rio Orinoco and Amazon basins in Colombia, Venezuela, Peru, Bolivia and Brazil the Pacu will grow into a big fish, sometimes in excess of 1 meter (3 feet). They are a deep bellied fish, and need a deep tank. They can live in excess of 20 years and can weigh over 20kg.
Tank Requirements: A suitable tank for a Pacu will be of very large dimensions. A minimum should be of 2500 litres. There's also little point adding plants as they'll be eaten immediately. Opt for a few boulders and perhaps some large chunks of driftwood.
Diet Requirements: Pacu are omnivores and they will eat just about anything offered to them. A good vegetable diet is a must though. They will eat most proprietary pellet and flake foods as well as nuts, fruit and seeds.
Compatibility: Pacus are a placid fish and will live with most larger fish including fish with a violent tendency. Despite their peaceful looks Pacu can look after themselves. Not for a community tank.
Recommendations: Not recommended for home aquaria. Should be left for the big public aquariums.
Common Problems: Stress related problems are a factor as Pacu are a shoaling species and can become lonely and withdrawn when kept alone. Add to this the tank size needed or cramped conditions will cause health problems.
Similar Species: Piranha (Superficially).
Sexing: The dorsal fin of the male is more pointed, and the anal fin has a toothed edge. The male's red colouration is much brighter than the female.
Breeding: Very unlikely in captivity. No recorded captive breeding as yet.
Author(s): Anon, Violet, Fishlady | Photo: Anon | Views: 16369
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