Pacu vs. Piranha — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on September 25, 2023
Pacu is fish related to piranhas but mainly herbivorous, known for human-like teeth. Piranha is carnivorous fish, sharp-toothed, often portrayed as aggressive.
Difference Between Pacu and Piranha
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Pacu: Herbivorous, mostly eats plants. Piranha: Carnivorous, preys on other fish.
Comparison Chart
Diet
Herbivorous, mainly eats plants
Carnivorous, preys on other fish
Teeth
Prominent human-like teeth
Sharp teeth for hunting
Aggressiveness
Generally non-aggressive
Often considered aggressive
Size
Larger size
Smaller in size
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Habitat
Found in slower-moving waters
Thrives in faster-flowing rivers
Compare with Definitions
Pacu
Herbivorous fish with human-like teeth.
The pacu in the Amazon River are known for their unique teeth.
Piranha
Carnivorous fish with sharp teeth.
Piranhas are famous for their sharp teeth and hunting behavior.
Pacu
Usually peaceful and not aggressive.
Pacus are commonly found peacefully feeding on aquatic plants.
Piranha
Often portrayed as aggressive predators.
The movie depicted piranhas attacking in a frenzy.
Pacu
Pacu (Portuguese pronunciation: [paˈku]) is a common name used to refer to several species of omnivorous South American freshwater serrasalmid fish that are related to the piranha. Pacu and piranha do not have similar teeth, the main difference being jaw alignment; piranha have pointed, razor-sharp teeth in a pronounced underbite, whereas pacu have squarer, straighter teeth and a less severe underbite, or a slight overbite.
Piranha
A piranha or piraña (, , or ; Portuguese: [piˈɾɐ̃ɲɐ], Spanish: [piˈɾaɲa]), a member of family Serrasalmidae, or a member of the subfamily Serrasalminae within the tetra family, Characidae in order Characiformes, is a freshwater fish that inhabits South American rivers, floodplains, lakes and reservoirs. Although often described as extremely predatory and mainly feeding on fish, their dietary habits vary extensively, and they will also take plant material, leading to their classification as omnivorous.
Pacu
Any of several South American freshwater fishes related to the piranha.
Piranha
Any of various tropical American freshwater fishes of several genera, especially Serrasalmus and Pygocentrus, that have sharp teeth and are known for attacking and feeding on live animals. Also called caribe.
Pacu
A South American fresh-water fish (Myletes pacu), of the family Characinidæ. It is highly esteemed as food.
Piranha
(ichthyology) Any of the carnivorous or frugivorous freshwater fish living in South American rivers and belonging to the subfamily Serrasalminae.
Piranha
Someone who attacks in search of booty
Piranha
Small voraciously carnivorous freshwater fishes of South America that attack and destroy living animals
Common Curiosities
Can pacus be kept in home aquariums?
Yes, but they need a spacious tank due to their size.
Are piranhas found in the Amazon River?
Yes, they are native to South American rivers, including the Amazon.
Do piranhas attack humans?
Piranha attacks on humans are rare and usually not fatal.
Are pacus dangerous to humans?
Generally not, although their powerful bite can cause injury.
What do pacus eat in the wild?
They primarily feed on aquatic plants and fruits.
Are piranhas solitary or school together?
They often form groups, or schools, for hunting and protection.
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Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
