Wimple piranha (Catoprion mento)

Scientific name: Catoprion mento Cuvier, 1819

The Wimple piranha (Catoprion mento) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae. In the aquarium it needs water at 23–26°C (73–79°F). Native range: South America, Amazon, Orinoco, Essequibo, and upper Paraguay River basins.

Wimple piranha care at a glance

Temperature: 23–26°C (73–79°F)

Biology

Possesses powerful dentition and can inflict serious bites. Has been observed to feed on scales of other fish.

Source: FishBase, licensed CC BY-NC 4.0.

Species facts

Scientific name: Catoprion mento
Family: Characidae (Characins)
Order: Characiformes (Characins)
Class: Actinopterygii (Ray-finned fishes)
Maximum length: 15.0
Environment: Freshwater;; pH range: ? - 5.4 pelagic
Climate: Tropical
Distribution: South America: Amazon, Orinoco, Essequibo, and upper Paraguay River basins.
Conservation status (IUCN): Not Evaluated
Threat to humans: Traumatogenic
Uses: Fisheries: minor commercial; aquarium: commercial
Resilience: High, minimum population doubling time less than 15 months (Preliminary K or Fecundity.)