The sharp-snouted piranha (''Serrasalmus sanchezi'') is a species of

serrasalmid The Serrasalmidae (serrasalmids) are a family of characiform fishes, recently elevated to family status. It includes more than 90 species. The name means "serrated salmon family", which refers to the serrated keel running along the belly of these ...

endemic Endemism is the state of a species being found in a single defined geographic location, such as an island, state, nation, country or other defined zone; organisms that are indigenous to a place are not endemic to it if they are also found else ...

Peru , image_flag = Flag of Peru.svg , image_coat = Escudo nacional del Perú.svg , other_symbol = Great Seal of the State , other_symbol_type = National seal , national_motto = "Firm and Happy f ...

. It is part of the '' S. rhombeus'' complex. It reaches a maximum size of around 7 inches (18 cm). Individuals often exhibit a red throat, similar to that of '' Pygocentrus nattereri''. It is also known as ruby-throated diamond piranha or "ruby-red piranha"; the latter name is also used for the speckled piranha ('' S. spilopleura'').

In the aquarium

It is a vicious fin biter and must be kept alone. However some people have had limited success with keeping these fish in a group. It requires a minimum of a 30" x 12" tank.

External links

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Oregon Piranha Exotic Fish Exhibit website
Serrasalmidae Piranhas Freshwater fish of Peru Fishkeeping Fish described in 1964 {{Characiformes-stub