A piranha (/ pɪˈrɑːnjəˌ - ræn /, or / pɪˈrɑːnə /; Portuguese: [piˈɾɐ̃ɲɐ]) is any of a number of freshwater fish species in the subfamily Serrasalminae, of the family Serrasalmidae, [1] in the order Characiformes. These fish inhabit South American rivers, floodplains, lakes and reservoirs. Although often described as extremely predatory and mainly feeding on fish, their ...
Piranha, any of more than 60 species of razor-toothed carnivorous fish of South American rivers and lakes, with a somewhat exaggerated reputation for ferocity. They have deep bodies, saw-edged bellies, and large, generally blunt heads with strong jaws bearing sharp, triangular teeth that meet in a scissorlike bite.
Piranhas are some of the most feared fish in the world, but is their reputation for ferocity a bit overblown?
How sharp are piranha teeth? The piranha's most recognisable feature is their triangular, razor-sharp teeth. The red-bellied piranha (Pygocentrus nattereri) is the most infamous, boasting the strongest jaws and sharpest teeth, and growing up to 50cm long. Piranha teeth are adapted for a carnivorous diet, interlocking in a scissor-like bite.
The Red Bellied Piranha Stars in Every Documentary When filmmakers need a villain, they cast the red bellied piranha (Pygocentrus nattereri). This species lives throughout the Amazon basin, the Orinoco, and various South American rivers and lakes. Adult piranhas of this species grow to about 30 centimeters long — roughly the size of a dinner ...
Unmasking the Piranha: Beyond the Jaws of Legend Few creatures of the aquatic world ignite the imagination quite like the piranha. Mention its name, and images of razor-sharp teeth, blood-crazed feeding frenzies, and stripped carcasses often spring to mind. Yet, beneath this sensationalized surface lies a fascinating and complex fish, an integral part of South America’s vibrant freshwater ...