The Genus Serrasalmus, also known as the piranha, falls under the family Characidae. The piranha has many synonyms associated with the scientific name Genus Serrasalmus. Some of these include Serrasalmo, Pygocentrus, Pristobrycon, and Serrasalmus sourdis. These synonyms may differ in their physical characteristics, geographical origin, or behavior. For example, Serrasalmo was used to describe a group of piranhas with serrated teeth, while Pygocentrus was used to describe piranhas with a more rounded body shape. Despite these differences, all of these synonyms still refer to the same group of carnivorous fishes found in South America.