Piranhas

Piranhas

Piranhas are freshwater fish native to South America, especially the Amazon Basin. Known for their sharp, triangular teeth and powerful jaws, they often carry a fierce reputation. In reality, most species are opportunistic feeders, eating insects, plants, and small animals, not just meat. While some species can be aggressive, many are relatively shy and pose little threat to humans. They usually live in schools, which helps protect them from predators and makes hunting more efficient.

1. Incredible Bite
Despite their small size, piranhas have one of the strongest bite forces relative to body size of any animal.
2. Tooth Replacement
Their sharp teeth are replaced in sections, like a conveyor belt, so they’re never without their razor-sharp tools.
3. Schooling Behaviour
Piranhas gather in large groups not just to hunt, but mainly for protection from larger predators.
4. Not Just Carnivores
Many piranhas are omnivores, feeding on fruits, seeds, and aquatic plants as well as fish.
5. Ancient Reputation
Theodore Roosevelt famously wrote about their ferocity after an Amazon expedition in 1913, helping fuel their legendary (but exaggerated) “man-eating” image.
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