Family: Serrasalmidae
Pygocentrus nattereri — a Serrasalmidae from South America. Reaches 37.5–55 cm; keep at 24–29 °C.
Pygocentrus nattereri is a Serrasalmidae from South America. In the wild it prefers rivers and floodplain lakes with structure; in the aquarium it stays pack hunters. Plan on 37.5–55 cm of adult fish at 24–29 °C. In a community tank it pairs well with Similar-sized peaceful community fish.
Intermediate difficulty. Pack hunters; keep in groups to curb aggression; keep in groups of 5 or more.
Hold 24–29 °C and keep it stable — 24–29 °C curated husbandry range. Heater for stable tropical warmth.
Full size is 37.5–55 cm. Minimum tank: 500 L, with open swimming space along its middle of the water column habits.
Carnivore; meaty foods. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.
Yes, with care. Pack hunters; keep in groups to curb aggression — pair it with Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs and skip Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.
Native to South America, where it lives in rivers and floodplain lakes with structure. Moderate current; High oxygen appreciated.
It can jump when startled — keep the tank tightly covered, especially at night and during maintenance.
Not bred in home aquaria. Subtle.