The tambaqui is very similar in size and shape to other species of pacu sharing features such as molar-like teeth but is differentiated by its two tone colouration of black/grey on its lower side and a greeny/yellow upper side. It is also less rounded than other pacu species but its diet is similar, feeding in the wild on nuts, seeds, plankton and algae.
It is a strong fish and when hooked will “dig” the bottom and take sharp turns in an attempt to throw hooks, which it often does, or more frequently it will just cut line with its teeth. Although commonly classed as a herbivore it will eat small fish and pieces of meat which makes them a tough adversary as they will often be able to bite through rigs designed for corn and pellet. They can be caught anywhere around the lake but seem to prefer feeding in deeper water and are especially active when large amount of lam are being used to target other species so don’t be surprised if you latch into one by mistake.