Recent occurrences include attacks in Rosario (Argentina) and Cáceres (Mato Grosso, Brazil). Piranha attacks on people are rare - but their fearsome nature means they can quickly make headlines worldwide when they happen. Most either die or become food items for predators and scavengers such as fish-eating mammals, wading birds, jacaré, water snakes and vultures. During the dry season many piranhas of all sizes become trapped in desiccating floodplain lakes and ponds cut off from the rivers. The seasonal rise and fall of most waters where piranhas live is also directly and indirectly responsible for numerous piranha deaths. dorado, jacaré, giant otters, amazon dolphins and numerous species of birds), makes piranhas timid - and is why they frequently stay together in shoals as a form of mutual protection. Strangely, the fact that piranha are prey for a multitude of other animals (e.g. Hence, the common triggers for attacks are splashing and the scent of blood. Piranha hunt, but are opportunistic - targeting easy prey which appear old, weak, wounded or exhibiting signs of distress. Some fish, such as the oscar, have a false eye spot on their rear flank, causing the tail to resemble a head and deter piranha attacks. Piranhas prefer to approach their prey from behind. They also scavenge the carcasses of other dead animals in the water. Piranha appear to be opportunistic scavengers more than mindless assassins - often exhibiting "grazing" behaviour where they quickly nip at other fish passing by (including other piranha). The non-vegetable portion of their diet consists of insects, crustaceans, fish eggs, scales/fins, and small vertebrates and fish. spilopleura, where appears to be a significant part of their diet. An analysis of the stomach contents for fish caught in the Pantanal shows a surprisingly high level of vegetable matter - particularly for P. In the lower, spanish-speaking areas of their range, piranha of various species are commonly referred to as palometa.Įveryone knows that piranha are carnivorous - but they're not entirely so. The Serrasalmus genus (and other related genera) are referred to by a variety of other names such as Pirambeba. Notably, within South America, only the Pygocentrus genus is considered as "true" piranha. This high degree of variability helps explain why the number and classification of piranha species remains contested by ictythologists - with estimates ranging from 30 to more than 60 different species. In older fish, the colour fades, so that they appear black or grey. Some think this may be linked to a regional variation in diet, incorporating more seeds and other vegetative matter. Usually this red coloration is most intense in the males, but those in the Pantanal often have a bright yellow coloration instead. For example, the red-bellied piranha gets its name due to its characteristic red belly. Their appearance varies due to diet, environment/location, season and age. Piranha, even those of the same species, can vary greatly in appearance - leading to difficulties identifying and categorising them. This species has a preference for shady areas, hiding in vegetation close to the riverbanks. Silver, with a yellow anal fin, tinged with black. Marginatus piranha or Pirambeba ( Serrasalmus marginatus).Others of this species in the Amazon region have a bright orange-red underside. Can appear gold or yellowish, with black trim on their tail. Ruby-red piranha or Gold piranha ( Serrasalmus spilopleura aka.They have a convex head-shape and sometimes red-coloured eyes. Some are so intensely gold-speckled that they are sometimes also called "Gold Dust piranha". Although named for their usually red belly, they can also appear orange or yellow. This species is the most common species - and with the most fearsome reputation. Red-bellied piranha ( Pygocentrus nattereri).Relative to its size, the piranha has one of the most powerful bites of any animal - exerting up to 30 times its bodyweight. Adults typically measure 25-33 cm (10-13 in) - although other species such as the Black Piranha ( Serrasalmus rhombeus) in the Amazon region can reach up to 45 cm (18 in). The jaw is thrust forward, containing triangular razor-sharp cutting teeth which interlock when closed. Piranha have a robust, narrow body, and a blunt head.
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