Piranhas are small but fierce fish famous for their razor-sharp teeth and powerful bite. Native to the rivers of South America—especially the Amazon—piranhas often get a bad rap in movies, but in reality, they’re not the man-eaters people think they are. Most piranhas are scavengers or eat small prey like fish, insects, and plants.
They usually swim in schools for protection, not to gang up on prey. And while their bites are strong, attacks on humans are extremely rare. Piranhas play a vital role in keeping their ecosystem clean and balanced.
Fun Fact
A piranha’s bite is stronger than a great white shark’s—pound for pound! Their jaws can crush through bones and shells with surprising ease.
