Myleus pacu (Jardine, 1841)
photo by Holm, E.

Family:  Serrasalmidae (Piranhas and pacus), subfamily: Myleinae
Max. size:  20 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  benthopelagic; freshwater, potamodromous
Distribution:  South America: Essequibo River.
Diagnosis:   
Biology:  Adults feed essentially on Podostemaceae (Lacis), more rarely on seeds (Caladium). During the rainy season, they undertake grand migrations to small creeks to reproduce (Ref. 12225). An important food fish. Possesses powerful dentition that can cause serious bites.
IUCN Red List Status: Near Threatened (NT); Date assessed: 02 January 2021 (A2cd) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  traumatogenic


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