South American Red Piranha fished out of Baton Rouge lake

A Red Piranha was caught earlier in the week in University Lakes. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) confirmed the capture came from the Baton Rouge lakes.

The Red Piranha, or Red-bellied Piranha, is a species which is native to South America.

LDWF believes it was a pet which was released and are working to investigate to see if more may be within the University Lake system.

It is illegal in Louisiana to possess or sell any piranha species. If you think you may have caught one, call the LDWF aquatic invasive species hotline at 225-765-3977. Do not return it to the water.