Red Pacu (Piaractus brachypomus)

Pacu are famous for a set of flattened, disturbingly human-like molars, but the real ecological story is what those teeth are for: cracking open the nuts and seeds pacu swallow whole while foraging through flooded Amazonian forest, then dispersing viable seeds elsewhere in the process. That seed-dispersal role makes pacu a genuinely important part of their native ecosystem, not just an internet punchline about the teeth. A fun, gentle giant we occasionally place with New Milford customers who have serious pond or tank space.

Care level: Easy · Temperament: Peaceful · Max size: ~24"+ · Min tank: 250+ gal (adult) · Diet: Omnivore, pellets + veggies