The Golden Piranha originates in the Amazon River.  It is also known at the Black Diamond Piranha and Red-Throated Piranha.  Some have yellow in their lower body, while others are red in this area.  These two color variations are sometimes referred to as gold spilos and ruby red spilos.  The distinctive features for both are a red throat, large speckled flakes on the flank and red in the eye.  These piranha are not recommended for the inexperienced, as these are dangerous meat eaters.

Golden Piranha are fin nippers and will even attack their own kind.  They should be kept alone, as they establish isolated territories.  They are one of the few species of piranha that have been bred in captivity.

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