Tank setup
A minimum 3000L aquarium suits Black Pacu. Provide hiding spots and stable water — this species thrives in a well-filtered community setup.
pH
5.5 - 7.5
Temperature
24° - 30 °C
Max size
90 cm
Min tank
3000 L
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What to know before you buy.
The Black Pacu, also known as the Tambaqui, is the largest characin in South America and the second-largest scaled freshwater fish on the continent. In the wild, it feeds heavily on fruits and seeds that fall into flooded forests during the rainy season. Its powerful jaws can crack Brazil nut shells with ease. Even larger than the Red-bellied Pacu, adults regularly exceed 80 centimetres and can surpass 30 kilograms. It is a truly massive fish that demands pond-scale housing.
Key traits
Select a tank to see how this species fits.
Everything you need to keep Black Pacu healthy in a South African setup.
A minimum 3000L aquarium suits Black Pacu. Provide hiding spots and stable water — this species thrives in a well-filtered community setup.
Keep pH 5.5–7.5 and 24–30°C. Stable parameters matter more than chasing perfect numbers — acclimate new arrivals slowly.
Black Pacu is herbivore. Feed a varied diet appropriate for monster fish — quality flakes, pellets, or frozen foods sized to the mouth.
Black Pacu is generally peaceful. Observe during feeding and at lights-out for true temperament.
Pair with similarly sized peaceful tankmates in monster fish. Avoid fin-nippers or species that outgrow this fish.
Breeding notes for Black Pacu vary by line and water chemistry — ask your local shop about proven pairs in SA.
From hobbyists across SA.
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Price tracking started 18 Jul 2026 — chart builds as listings are updated
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Species that typically work alongside Black Pacu in a similar setup.
