Piranha

Piranha is a term that refers to a member of family Characidae in order Characiformes, an omnivorous freshwater fish that inhabits South American rivers, floodplains, lakes and reservoirs.

Etymology

The word 'piranha' is from the Tupi (a Brazilian indigenous language) words 'pirá', meaning 'fish', and 'sanha', meaning 'tooth'.

Characteristics

Piranhas are known for their sharp teeth and a voracious appetite for meat. They have a single row of sharp teeth in both jaws; the teeth are tightly packed and interlocking (via small cusps) and are used for rapid puncture and shearing.

Species

There are more than 60 species of piranhas. Some of the most well-known species include the Red-bellied Piranha and the Black Piranha.

Behavior

Piranhas are typically very aggressive, and are known for their feeding frenzies. However, they are also known to be timid scavengers, and will often retreat from threats or unfamiliar objects.

In popular culture

Piranhas have been portrayed in various media as extremely predatory and dangerous. However, this is largely a myth, and while piranhas are indeed capable of biting and injuring humans, they are not known to kill humans.

See also

• Characidae
• Red-bellied Piranha
• Black Piranha

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