Is Pacu Fish A Piranha? Debunking The Common Misconception

Are pacu and piranha the same? Pacu and piranha are both freshwater fish found predominantly in the Amazon River and various other rivers across South America. However, they have distinct dietary preferences. Pacu primarily sustains itself on aquatic vegetation, occasionally supplementing its diet with snails and insects. On the other hand, piranha predominantly feeds on small animals, snails, and plants. This information was last updated on August 3rd, 2018.

What exactly is a pacu fish? A pacu is a type of freshwater fish belonging to the Characidae family. It is closely related to the piranha and is often referred to as the “vegetarian piranha” due to its similar appearance but primarily herbivorous diet. These fish are native to South America, particularly the Amazon River basin, and are known for their distinctive flat, round bodies and strong teeth, which are adapted for crushing plant matter. While they share some similarities with piranhas, pacus are generally less aggressive and feed on fruits, nuts, and aquatic vegetation, making them an intriguing species in the world of aquatic life.