Piranhas (the fish)

Piranhas are indigenous to the Amazon River and its tributaries in Brazil and Peru. There are many species of piranha. The Black Piranha (Serrasalmus Niger), one of the largest piranhas, can reach a length of 18 inches and a weight of over 5 pounds. It is said to be the most aggressive and dangerous for the aquarium. They are very difficult to acquire and will generally beat each other up until there is only one left. The most common species available for the home aquarium is the Red Bellied Piranha (Serrasalmus Nattereri). We acquired six red bellied piranhas in November 1999. At that time, they were the size of a dime. Today, one year later, they are 5-6 inches in length. When fully grown, they can reach a length of 12 inches and weigh over 2 pounds.

Our piranhas are constantly scuffling amongst themselves for position and dominance. Most of their fighting is in the form of body language threats and chasing one another. Though actual physical contact is rare, occasionally one does gets bitten. A piranha bite is unlike the bite of any other animal in that it results in a 100% loss of flesh. They are equipped with powerful jaws and razor sharp triangular teeth that neatly fit together in such a way that there are no gaps. The resulting wound from a piranha bite has a smooth surgical look to it. There are no abrasions or puncture marks but rather a complete tissue loss. Amazingly, these fish heal rather quickly, and even severe wounds completely disappear in a few weeks. So far, we have had only one casualty. It seems they decided that six was too many in a 80 gallon tank. Only the head remained of the one that they chose for termination.

Though capable of inflicting a very serious bite that would ruin your whole day, you will be disappointed to learn that they are not anywhere near as ferocious as their reputation would lead you to believe. They are particularly shy creatures and terrified of humans. Their aggression is focused on each other. At least for now, I have no concern with placing my arm into the tank, as they will invariably scurry to the farthest corner.

Piranhas are illegal to possess in many states. This is due to the fear that some unscrupulous person may release their pets into the local river or lake. This does happen. The theory is that they may somehow spawn and form sinister marauding schools terrorizing the community and consuming everything in their path. It is virtually impossible for piranhas to survive outdoors anywhere in this country with the possible exception of southern Florida. This is due to the fact that they are particularly sensitive to water temperatures below 75 degrees. These are tropical fish. It is simply impossible for them to survive a single winter in the North American Continent.