......................Wimple Piranha
Other names:...........none Origin:......................Guyana and Mato Grosso of the Amazon Max size:..................6" PH:............-..............5.8-6.6 Temperature:...........73-79 F. Min tank size:..........50 gallons Food:.........................Meat, live foods |
The Wimple Piranha is a Characin not actually classified as a true Piranha, although it has all the characteristics of one. The body is fairly elongated in relation to Piranhas, much like Serrasalmus rhombeus. The lower jaw protrudes to give a defined underbite. The body is silver with dark spots which fade with age. A red spot is present just behind the gill cover.
Juvenile Wimple Piranhas are able to get along with other fishes, but as they mature they become more and more aggressive and should be confined to a large species tank. They will bite and eat the scales from most other fish in the tank. Light levels should be subdued by floating plants, as well there should be plants provided as hiding places for this shy fish. Driftwood is also favored. An acidic PH level with soft, clean water is essential, as is a strong water current. Even with the proper tank conditions, these fish fright easy.
Wimple Piranhas are carnivors and accept only meaty foods. Feeder fish may be offered, but because these fish pick apart their prey starting with the scales and fins, it's mearly torture. Breeding and sexing information has not been reported.
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