Armatus Payara Vampire Fish (2.5-3”)

Scientific Name:

Hydrolycus armatus

Maximum Size and Lifespan:

• Maximum Size: Up to 3.5 feet (106 cm) in the wild; usually 24–30 inches (60–76 cm) in captivity

• Lifespan: Approximately 10+ years with proper care

Recommended Aquarium Size:

• Minimum Tank Size: 350+ gallons (1,900 liters) or larger for adult specimens. Juveniles can be raised in a 75-180 gallon for better observation.

• These are very large, powerful, and fast-swimming fish requiring vast open space strong water flow, and high oxygen levels.

Water Parameters and Care:

• Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Filtration: Extremely strong filtration and high oxygenation required. Preferably use canister filters or sump systems.

• Flow: Moderate to strong current, mimicking river flow. Its best to use a wavemaker

• Water Changes: 40-60% weekly, depending on bioload

Tank Setup & Décor:

• Open swimming space is a must

• Minimal decorations; use driftwood and large rocks around tank perimeters

• A tight-fitting lid or cover is essential — Payara are powerful jumpers
  

Tankmates:

• Not suitable for community tanks

• Best kept alone or with equally large, robust predatory species such as:

  • Large Peacock Bass (Cichla spp.),Giant Bichirs (Polypterus congicus), Other Hydrolycus species, stingrays, Arowana. (Make sure sizes are appropriate. Payara are fragile when small especially under 6". Also make sure the other fish are not to small to being prey for the payara.

• Do not house with small or slow-moving fish — will be eaten or injured
  

Diet:

• Carnivorous predator

• In the wild, they feed almost exclusively on live fish

• In captivity, can be weaned onto:

  • Frozen/thawed fish like silversides

  • Chunks of shrimp, tilapia, and silversides

  • Live fish (use quarantined feeders only) Its best to only use feeders if you are struggling to get the payara to take frozen/dry foods.

  • May accept pellets or carnivore sticks over time

• Juveniles Feed 5 times a week; Adults can be fed every other day or 3-4 times per week.

Overview:

Hydrolycus armatus, known commonly as the Armatus Payara, Saber Tooth Barracuda, or Vampire Tetra, is one of the most aggressive and iconic Amazonian game fish. Famous for its elongated, fang-like teeth, this predatory fish is not for beginners and requires expert-level care, proper tank size, and a commitment to consistent maintenance.

They are sensitive to water quality, easily stressed in cramped tanks, and can become lethargic or refuse food if not provided optimal conditions. However, when kept properly, they make for one of the most striking and awe-inspiring species in the predatory aquarium hobby.

Natural Environment:

• Native Range: Amazon and Orinoco River Basins (Brazil, Venezuela, Peru, Colombia)

• Inhabit fast-moving rivers, often found in whitewater zones and deep channels

• Predators that rely on ambush hunting tactics, using speed and agility to spear prey with their fangs

Breeding:

• Not bred in captivity successfully to date (in aquariums)

• Very little is known about their reproduction

• In the wild, they are believed to spawn during seasonal floods

• No commercial or hobbyist-level spawning protocols currently exist