The Piranha Myth

Piranhas do not typically eat live humans; their reputation as man-eaters is largely a myth. Despite having sharp teeth that can inflict serious bites, their diet consists mainly of insects, fish, and carrion. Attacks on humans are usually isolated bites to the extremities, which typically occur when they are cornered, during the breeding season, or when they detect blood. Feeding Behavior: They feed on both meat and plants, making them omnivorous; they also scavenge. Risk Circumstances: Attacks occur more frequently during the dry season, although they are exceptional, when food and water are scarce. Attacks on Live Humans: There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that a school of piranhas can consume a live human in a matter of minutes. Carrion: They feed on corpses, such as those of drowning victims. Locations: They are native to South American rivers.