Pirapatinga vs Freshwater butterflyfish: can they live together?

Verdict: Not recommended

  • The Freshwater butterflyfish is aggressive towards other fish.
  • The Pirapatinga is best kept in a species tank.
  • An adult Pirapatinga is about 8 times the length of a Freshwater butterflyfish and may eat it.
  • Both are comfortable at 24–28°C (75–82°F).
  • A pH of 6.7–6.8 suits both.

Side by side

PirapatingaFreshwater butterflyfish
Adult size88 cm (35 in)11 cm (4.3 in)
Minimum tank–75 L (20 US gal)
Temperature22–28°C (72–82°F)24–30°C (75–86°F)
pH4.8–6.86.7–7.5
Hardness4–15 dGH (71–268 ppm)2–10 dGH (36–178 ppm)
TemperamentPeacefulAggressive
Community tankNot suitable–
Care levelEasy–
DietHerbivoreCarnivore

Species profiles