Prohibited or regulated in some states. See list below. The Red Belly Piranha, through their depiction in Hollywood films as voracious predators that will strip its prey of flesh in a matter of minutes [a general misconception of the species behavior as a whole], have become one of the most notorious freshwater fishes in the world. Widely found throughout the Amazon Basin, many juvenile Red belly piranha are sourced from aquaculture farming. Adult specimens, and other less common species, are likely collected from the wild. Juvenile Red belly piranha will be void of their red bellies until they mature more. Juveniles at approximately 1″ will be completely silver in color; slightly larger juveniles of several inches will also be silver, with some black spots that disappear with age. Though admired among new and seasoned hobbyists alike, the Red belly piranha should only be considered by the dedicated aquarist that can provide the aquarium space and maintenance routine required by this species (see ‘Care Requirements’ below). Extreme care should be exercised when netting Red belly piranha. Red belly piranha are best kept in groups of 4 or more individuals. An adult Red belly piranha can reach a size of approximately 14″.