Brandtii Piranha (Serrasalmus Brandtii)

Scientific Name:
SERRASALMUS BRANDTII.

Common Names:
Brandtii Piranha, 24KGold Piranha.

Range:
This species is only found in Brasil: Rio São Francisco and some tributaries (like Rio Itapicurù).

Maximum Size:
about 30cm. (12")

Body Characteristics:
The Brandtii Piranha is predominantly gold-coloured, although some specimen can be almopst completely silver or have brownish tints. It has bright, iredescent scales on its flanks and a very concave head shape. Most fins are transluscent, and in the same colour as the body. The anal fin can be red, and the caudal fin is dark on the base. The eyes are silver.

Distinctive/unique features:
Clear eyes.

• Base of the dorsal and anal fin are at the same position (vertical line).
  
  Tank:
  At least 50 gallons for adult specimen - the bigger the tank, the better. For juveniles and sub-adults a 20 gallon tank is sufficient.
  In a home aquarium, the Brandtii Piranha is considered to be a very agressive species of piranha, that often will not shy away when it is approached by humans.
  
  Compatible Species:
  NONE. Because of its fin-nipping habit and extreme intolerance towards other tank mates, this species should be kept alone in a species tank. In some rare cases, a Pleco, Raphael Catfish or other heavily armed catfish worked out.
  
  Food:
  Fish (fillets, frozen fish and live feeders), shrimps and other crustaceans, insects, pellets, rain worms.
  
  Comments:
  S. Brandtii is only found in a geographically very limited range, which commercial traders visit rarely. Because of this, this species is a rare sight in home aquariums, and the prices for this fish are usually very high.By:Jonas Hansel (Thank You for the great information)