Woman hooks piranha type fish in Lake St. Clair

Pacu fish is native to South America

DETROIT – Fish with teeth are never good news.

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The Department of Natural Resources is confirming that a local woman caught a Pacu fish in Lake St. Clair last Wednesday. The fish is native South America, and measured at about 14'' long.

The DNR thinks it was most likely a pet fish that someone set free. The fish have square teeth, almost human-like, and can grow to about 55 lbs, which is much larger than their piranha relatives.

Pacu are commonly sold as "Vegetarian Piranhas" to home aquarium owners. With the proper equipment and commitment, pacu have been known to make responsive pets.


About the Author:

Ken Haddad has proudly been with WDIV/ClickOnDetroit since 2013. He also authors the Morning Report Newsletter and various other newsletters, and helps lead the WDIV Insider team. He's a big sports fan and is constantly sipping Lions Kool-Aid.