There’s a fish in some of the freshwater lakes and streams of South America that has perhaps frightened more people than the fiercest sharksthe piranha. And that’s easy to understand, because so many true stories have been told about large animals and people being attacked and eaten by a large school of these bloodthirsty fish. Although only 4 to 18 inches long, some scientists consider them more dangerous than sharks. They have razorsharp teeth, and sometimes a thousand or more attack as a group, stripping the flesh from the victim in minutes.
Some related species eat plants, nuts, fruits, lizards, frogs, snakes, etc. Sometimes they will sneak up on other fish, nipping off a fin or scale without otherwise attacking it. The fin soon grows back, and no serious damage has been done.
There are about 30 species of piranhas, but one thing they all have is razorsharp teeth. These teeth are quickly replaced when the old ones become dull or damaged. They can open and close their toothy jaws faster than the blink of an eye.
One species, the redbellied piranha, is only about seven inches long, but well equipped for its size with razorsharp teeth in a thick skull. It is actually brownishpurple on its back, but has a brightred stomach.
While all are fierce looking, some are really noted for their beauty, and the redbellied is among these. Another is covered with olivecolored scales flecked with gold; others are deep purple, etc.
Little ones hatch from eggs laid in nests prepared by both the male and female. However, the male quickly takes over, not letting his mate or any other creature even approach until the eggs have hatched.
Some people eat piranhas. Natives catch them for part of their daily food supply, in addition to selling quantities in fish markets. They apparently make a tasty meal.
These unusual fish are just another example of the millions of creatures living in water which the Creator took a delight in placing there. When we consider His power, wisdom and love to boys and girls all over the earth, we all should respond to the Bible verse telling us: “Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth.” Ecclesiastes 12:11Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them; (Ecclesiastes 12:1). But no one is ever too old to remember our Creator. And no one is ever too young or too old to accept Him as Lord and Saviour.
ML-08/25/1991