About
The Black Pacu (Colossoma macropomum) is a large freshwater fish native to the Amazon basin. Though closely related to the piranha, it is herbivorous.Scientific Name
Colossoma macropomumHabitat
Found in slow-moving rivers, floodplains, and flooded forests of the Amazon and Orinoco basins.Conservation
Not currently endangered, but populations are impacted by overfishing and habitat destruction.Lifespan
Can live up to 20–30 years in captivity with good care.Fun Fact
Despite looking like piranhas, Black Pacus have flat, human-like teeth to help them chew hard nuts and seeds.Diet
Herbivorous – mainly feeds on fruits, seeds, nuts, and plant matter, especially during flood season.Average Size
Can grow up to 100 cm (39 inches) and weigh over 30 kg.Location / Placement info
Displayed in the Coastal Reef Exhibit, near the Ocean-View TunnelFAQ
What is the lifespan of the Black Pacu?
Black Pacu can live up to 20–25 years in captivity with excellent care and large tank conditions.
What do Black Pacu eat?
They are primarily herbivorous, eating fruits, vegetables, plant matter, and occasionally pellets or protein-based treats.
Are Black Pacu aggressive?
No, they are peaceful and non-aggressive, but their large size may intimidate smaller tank mates.
What is the ideal tank size for Black Pacu?
A minimum of 300 gallons is recommended for adult Pacu due to their size and active swimming.
Do Black Pacu need a specific environment to survive?
Yes, they thrive in well-filtered, oxygen-rich freshwater with open swimming space and low current.
How big do Black Pacu grow?
They can grow up to 30 inches (75 cm) or more and weigh over 25 kg (55 lbs) in large setups or the wild.
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