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Scientific Name:
Serrasalmus altuvei (Ramírez, 1965) Common Names: Altuvei, "Caribe Azul" (= Blue Caribe). Range: The Altuvei Piranha is found in the clear waters of the Venezuelan Llanos. It is a rare sight in captivity and reportedly quite rare in the wild as well. Maximum Size: About 20cm. (8") Body Characteristics: Description coming soon... Distinctive/unique features: • Red eyes. • Pattern mainly situated above the lateral line. • Concave headshape. |
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Aquarium:
Adult fish need a tank of at least 48x18x18", while younger specimen can temporarily be kept in smaller tanks, the minimum being a tank of 32x14".
The aquarium needs to be decorated with plants, (drift)wood and rocks to provide hiding places for this often somewhat shy and skittish fish (especially during the first weeks/months). But an open area to swim should also be offered. A powerhead can be used to add a little extra water currents, to mimic its natural habitat.
Temperature:
pH:
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Compatible Species:
None.
Because of its fin-nipping habit and intolerance towards other tank mates, this species should be kept alone in a species tank. In some rare cases, a Pleco, Raphael Catfish or other heavily armed catfish worked out.
Diet:
Fish (fillets, frozen fish and live feeders *), shrimp, prawns, mussel, squid and other sea fruits, earth worms, meal worms and other insects, flakes, pellets, granules.
* Live fish need to be quarantained first, so they are safe to feed (containing no disases or parasites). Goldfish, minnows and other members of the Cyprinid family (Carp-like fish) should be avoided, as these fish contain growth-inhibiting hormones (Thiaminase/Vitamine B1 inhibitors) that could negatively affect the fish's health and development.
Comments:
The Altuvei Piranha resembles S. compressus very closely, but can be told apart because its pattern on the flanks is mainly situated above the lateral line (S. compressus shows patterning all over de flanks).
| Some pictures of Serrasalmus altuvei | |
 Photo: Rosecityrhom www.piranha-fury.com |
 Photo: InSinUAsian www.piranha-fury.com |
