Morphology (Body Characteristics)
Body shape is similar to other compressus group members and are very laterally compressed such as; S. altuvei, S. hastatus, S. compressus and S. altispinis. The fish is distinctive at all ages with its broad stripe running from lower mouth to top of beginning of dorsal fin.
Color: Silvery bodied fish with numerous small spots on the flanks. Anal fin is hyaline with a broad black margin. Pectoral and ventral fins are clear. A humeral spot may be present. Eyes silvery to reddish-orange.
A quick visual reference to identify this fish:
- Reddish-orange eyes
- Violet line running from the lower jaw, over the back until the base of the tail fin
- Concave head shape
Maximum Size: Approx. 25 cm. (10") TL. Specimens over 20 cm. (8") TL are quite rare in captivity.
Sexing: Not sexually dimorphic: males and females look similar.
Read more about this topic: Violet Line Piranha
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