Pacu Biting

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pigoo

Gambusia
MFK Member
Mar 25, 2013
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United States
So over the past 2 months I've rescued/rehomed 4 Pacu (1 albino & 3 red belly). They are all 8-10" in length. I know that Pacu are usually very docile/gentle/friendly fish. But boy I've got to tell you...when it's feeding time...it's "every fish for themselves"...since feeding time is VERY chaotic.

Today I did a large water change and a "vacuum job" (with one of those simple gravity siphons). And due to the height of the tank (about 28") and the gravity siphon length (about 18")...when I get in there...I'm up to my forearm in the water.

Given how excited the Pacu can get at feeding time...I was a little concerned about getting bitten by one of the Pacu. Not so much on purpose...but more by accident...given how competitive they can be when food is put in the tank.

So my question's are...has anyone ever been bitten by their Pacu?...and if so:

- How big were the Pacu?
- Did the bite hurt?
- Do you think the bite was on purpose...or by accident?
- What were you doing when you got bit (cleaning, rearranging decorations, feeding, etc.)?

Thanks
 
Ever watched the river monsters episode ball cutter? I personally would be very wary around larger sized pacu. Their teeth aren't anything to mess with. I got bit by a 5 inch pacu years ago drew blood and hurt that about all I remember.my advice watch your fingers and be ready to move them out the way


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Haha river monster should not be taken too seriously. Pacu do pack a punch though, fingers away!
 
Thanks for the VERY fast replies so far.:)

I guess that I thought that maybe my Pacu biting concerns were a bit misplaced (or maybe I was being paranoid)...but good to hear folks saying that Pacu biting can happen.

My experience today (while vacuuming) really wasn't a problem. The tank is 6 feet long...and if I was cleaning the right side of the tank...all the Pacu were crowded together on the extreme left side of the tank. So they certainly seemed to be doing their best to stay away from my hand/arm when I was vacuuming.

The biggest Pacu (of the 4) is probably close to 12"...and I'm sure he could give a pretty painful bite if he decided to (accidentally or on purpose).

Thanks again...looking forward to hearing more!:)
 
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