Animals Directory

Archive for the ‘Piranha fish’ Category

The Piranha is a carnivorous fish, freshwater, who lives in the rivers of South America. Their presence is particularly strong in the Amazon, the Orinoco, Guyana and Paraguay.

Features:

Piranhas form five genera within the subfamily Serrasalminae. Measured, usually between 15 and 25 cm in length, although specimens have been found in excess of 40 cm. They are popularly known for their sharp teeth and insatiable and aggressive appetite for meat.

The latest research on the specimens and Pygocentrus Brandi Serrasalmus nattier has been made in Vienna Lake, which is formed during the rainy season, when the river overflows Pindar. The data collected show that these species of piranhas, at times in your life, eat vegetables, so it can be said that are not strictly carnivores.

Behavior:

Contrary to what the film was released, piranhas are not usually attack humans; the few reported attacks corresponding to specimens of the genus Pygocentrus. In fact, the natives quietly bathe in water frequented by these fish, the piranha being a staple among the local populations.

However, it should be noted that the aggressiveness of these animals is higher in the dry season due to a shortage of prey. Therefore, the agitation of a hand or a foot in the water can trigger an attack by the piranha, the confusion with a small animal. Bites are also common to fishermen when they try to escape their nets.