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Scientific Name:
Serrasalmus compressus (Jégu en Dos Santos, 1991) Common Names: This species is often mislabeled, and sold under the name of other piranha species: Altuvei Piranha, Black Piranha, Rhom(beus) Piranha. Range: The Compressus Piranha is considered rare both in captivity and in the wild. It is found only in the Rio Madeira and a number of its tributaries, Brazil. Maximum Size: About 20-23cm. (8-9") Body Characteristics: Description coming soon... Distinctive/unique features: • Red(dish) eyes. • Pattern of bars (instead of spots, like other Serrasalmus-species). • 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). Dimmed lights also have a positive effect on shyness. 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 and other crustaceans, insects, pellets, rain worms.
* 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 Compressus Piranha resembles S. altuvei very closely, but can be told apart because its pattern is shown on the entire flanks (in case of S. altuvei, it is mainly situated above the lateral line).
| Some pictures of Serrasalmus compressus | |
 Photo: Mashunter18 www.piranha-fury.com |
 Photo: Mashunter18 www.piranha-fury.com |
