What is the scientific name of the red-bellied piranha, a South American freshwater fish?

The scientific name of the red-bellied piranha is Pygocentrus nattereri.

This South American characiform has a deep, laterally compressed body, strong jaws, and sharp teeth. Adults typically develop reddish coloration on the underside, although the exact appearance varies with age, location, and condition.

Red-bellied piranhas live in rivers, floodplain lakes, and other freshwater environments across much of tropical South America. They may feed on fish, insects, crustaceans, plant material, and carrion, so the popular image of a fish that eats only live meat is inaccurate.

The species is often confused with black piranhas in the genus Serrasalmus. Several piranha species share similar shapes and reputations, making the scientific name more reliable than the common name alone.