Piranha are a cannibalistic species. Although most Piranha are omnivorous in nature, the Red-Bellied Piranha is carnivorous. Studies have proved that they will nip at the tail and eyes of fellow fish and other Piranha if aggressed against. They also eat fish as part of their natural diet. While not regular, they will eat other Piranha if hungry. In the wild this happens more often in the dry season as food scarcity takes place. In an aquarium it can happen if they are not fed regularly enough or the tank is too small. in this instance the tank was to small.