Often mistaken for its close relative, the tambaqui, the pirapitinga is a powerful, deep-bodied omnivore that thrives in the diverse aquatic environments of the Amazon Basin. Known locally as caranha, this species can reach impressive sizes—up to 85 cm in length and over 20 kg—and is prized both for its strength and as a table fish.

While similar in shape and behavior to the tambaqui, pirapitinga can be distinguished by several features, including the presence of conical teeth, a more prominent adipose fin with soft rays, and a body coloration that often shifts from silvery to reddish hues in the fins and flanks, especially in juveniles. Its preference for fruit, seeds, and nuts is a hallmark of the species, but adults will also take small fish and invertebrates when the opportunity arises.

Pirapitinga are gregarious and migratory, often traveling long distances to spawn. They are most often encountered in oxbows, flooded forests, and lakes off major river channels, where their diet plays a key ecological role in seed dispersal and nutrient cycling. Anglers will find these fish aggressive, resilient, and thrilling on both bait and artificial lures—especially when targeting them during their seasonal movements.