Serrasalmus manueli the Green Tiger Piranha

Serrasalmus manueli or Manuel's Piranha is one of the most aggressive piranhas and one of the largest species of piranha known. These fish are super aggressive and will not tolerate any other fish in the aquarium. Its a good idea to keep them as solitary pets. The Manuelli Piranha have a keen awareness of everything that in there environment and will attack most anything you put place in the aquarium. This species of piranha accepts the standard fare offered other piranha's such as krill, shrimp, live goldfish, worms, frozen fish and fillets.

Manueli Piranhas, also known as Ternetzi Piranhas, are a species of piranha that are native to the Amazon Basin in South America. They are known for their distinctive appearance, sharp teeth, and aggressive behavior.

Manueli Piranhas are typically found in rivers and streams in the Amazon Basin, particularly in areas with dense vegetation and slow-moving water. They are omnivorous and feed on a variety of prey, including fish, insects, crustaceans, and even small mammals and birds. They are also known to scavenge on carcasses and other organic matter.

Manueli Piranhas can grow to be quite large, with some individuals reaching up to 13 inches in length. They have a distinctive appearance, with a silver-grey body and black markings along their sides. They also have sharp teeth and powerful jaws, which they use to catch and devour their prey.

One of the characteristics that sets Manueli Piranhas apart from other piranha species is their aggressive behavior. They are known to be territorial and will fiercely defend their territory from other fish, including other piranhas. They are also known to attack humans and animals that enter their territory, particularly if they feel threatened or cornered.

In comparison to other piranha species, Manueli Piranhas are considered to be one of the more aggressive and territorial species. They are often kept in aquariums by experienced fish enthusiasts, but they require a large and well-maintained tank, and should only be kept with other fish species that can withstand their aggressive behavior.

Overall, Manueli Piranhas are a fascinating and unique species of piranha. Their distinctive appearance, sharp teeth, and aggressive behavior make them a popular choice among experienced fish enthusiasts, but they require specialized care and should only be kept by those who are familiar with their specific needs and behavior.

Serrasalmus manueli Common Names:

Manuel's Piranha or Green Tiger Piranha

What is the range of Serrasalmus manueli in South America?

Its specific locality is Venezuela, Rio Amazonas, Rio Negro.

Maximum Size of Serrasalmus manueli fish:

About 30.48cm (13")

Tank size for Serrasalmus manueli?

S. manueli juveniles and sub-adults can be kept in a 30 gallon aquarium. When they reach a size of 4-6", a 55 gallon tank is more suitable to provide enough space to move and turn freely. Adult fish need a tank of at least 75 gallons. A powerhead can be used to add a little extra water currents and oxygen, to mimic its natural habitat.

Compatible Species for Serrasalmus manueli tankmates

Serrasalmus manueli, also known as Manuel's piranha, can be highly aggressive, which makes selecting appropriate tankmates challenging.

Other Manuel's piranha - Keeping a small group of 4-6 of their own kind can work in a very large tank with abundant cover. Avoid overcrowding.

Large plecostomus - Armored bottom dwellers like plecos help clean algae and their size protects from nipping. Provide hiding spots.

Silver dollars - Active schooling fish that occupy upper levels. Can provide dither effect.

Large tetras - Some robust tetras like congo tetras may work but still pose some nipping risk. Heavily planted tank is a must.

Ctenolucius hujeta - A large pike-characin species that may be able to handle itself around Manuel's piranha.

Tankmates should be added slowly while observing the piranhas. Have backup tanks ready to remove bullied fish. Avoid small, active, or slow tankmates that can trigger attacks. Proper aquascaping to break up sight lines is critical. Keeping S. manueli alone or with others of their kind in a large tank is often easiest.

What is the diet for Serrasalmus manueli piranha?

Fish (including fillets, frozen fish and live feeders), shrimps and other crustaceans, insects, pellets, rain worms. In some cases, this species will also accept fruits, seeds and nuts.

Serrasalmus manueli Piranha in a large tank

References

Serrasalmus manueli - Manuel's Piranha
Serrasalmus manueli, Manuel's Piranha or Green Tiger Piranha