Piraya

Serrasalmus

Length: About 30cm

Lifespan: Approximately 10 - 20 years

Habitat: Freshwater rivers

Food: Omnivore

Distribution: South America

Piranhas are notorious for being bloodthirsty meat grinders that swim in schools, leaving behind only clean-scraped skeletons. This terrifying image is not entirely true. Piranhas sometimes hunt in packs, but recent research suggests that piranhas often stick together to protect themselves from predators. Piranha teeth are sharp and triangular. Their bite is one of the most powerful of all fish.