Body Characteristics:
Juvenile S. manueli are easily recognizable, because they have a number of traits that set them apart from most other species: first of all, their body shape is very elongated, making them fast and agile swimmers. Besides that, thet have a concave headshape, a very long lower jaw, extremely large eyes, and vertical bands running over their greenish tinted flanks (giving young specimen the name Green Tiger Piranha).
When they grow up, the body shape becomes more stocky and high, the bands on the flanks start to disappear, as well as the greenish hue on the flanks. The head shape becomes more convex (more resembling pygocentrus species).
All specimen, juvenile and adult alike (most likely except fry and very small specimen), have red or orange gill plates and a prominent, dark humeral spot. The eye color is orange.
Best viewed in HD. (Click Play, bottom right hand side of video, click on settings, click HD)
Maximum Size:
Being one of the largest species of piranha known to man, according to South American natives and fishermen, this fish have reportedly been caught at sizes well over 20" (50 cm.). So far, there's little evidence available to back up these claims.
In home aquariums, this fish is a very rare sight, and most fish that have survived the ordeals of shipping are below 8" (this species is notoriously vulnerable during transport, and therefore this species is very exotic and expensive). The largest specimen in captivity are about 13-14" in size, so not even close to their full growth potential.
Food:
This species accepts the same foods as most other piranha's: fish (fresh fillets, frozen fish, live feeders), shrimp, krill and other crustaceans, worms and other insects. Also, nuts, seeds and fruits might be accepted, because they form a substancial part of their diet in the wild.
Best viewed in HD. (Click Play, bottom right hand side of video, click on settings, click HD)
Distinctive/unique features:
As juvenile:
- Very elongated body.
- Large, orange eyes.
- Tiger stripes on flanks.
- Green hue on flanks.
As adult:
- Pygocentrus-like headshape.
- Flanks silver colored.
- Black, V-shaped tail fin coloration..
Aquarium - The Manuelli Piranha is very hardy and does well in the aquarium provided its given the right conditions. It Requires a PH of 6.0 and a temperature of 76f to 80f. Its not a picky eater and will consume just about every thing that is offered to them.
Aggression - The Manuelli piranha is one of the most aggressive piranhas. They are super aggressive and will not tolerate any other fish in the tank, they must be kept by them selves. The Manuelli Piranha is always aware of everything that is going on and will attack anything you put in the tank as soon as it hits the water.
Best viewed in HD. (Click Play, bottom right hand side of video, click on settings, click HD)
By:Jonas Hansel (Thank You for the great Information)
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