What is the New Fish with Human Teeth?
The so-called “fish with human teeth” is usually the Pacu (Colossoma macropomum), a South American freshwater fish known for its square, human-like teeth which they use primarily for crushing nuts and fruits. Although not a new species, internet buzz resurfaces periodically due to the fish’s unusual dental structure and misconceived reputation as a threat to humans.
Understanding the Pacu: A Misunderstood Fish
The Pacu, a member of the Piranha family (Serrasalmidae), is often mistaken for its carnivorous cousin due to its appearance. However, the Pacu is predominantly an omnivore, its diet consisting mainly of fruits, nuts, seeds, and occasionally invertebrates or decaying matter. Their distinctive teeth, resembling those of humans, are adapted for crushing tough plant matter. The periodic resurfacing of the “fish with human teeth” label often leads to unnecessary fear and misunderstanding.
Origin and Habitat
Pacu originate from the Amazon and Orinoco river basins in South America. Due to aquarium releases and aquaculture escapes, they have been found in various waterways around the world, including parts of North America and Europe. This invasive species status in many regions has raised concerns about their impact on local ecosystems.
Diet and Dentition
The Pacu’s diet is remarkably different from that of its more fearsome relative, the Piranha. The Pacu is an opportunistic feeder, consuming whatever is readily available. Their strong, flat teeth are ideally suited for cracking open nuts and seeds that fall into the water from riparian vegetation. Unlike the sharp, triangular teeth of Piranhas used for tearing flesh, the Pacu’s teeth are designed for grinding and crushing.
Potential Risks and Misconceptions
The Pacu gained notoriety for its supposed attacks on male swimmers’ testicles, fueled by sensationalized news reports and anecdotal evidence. However, confirmed cases are extremely rare, and most experts believe these incidents are either misidentified attacks by other fish or simply coincidences. While Pacu can bite if provoked, they are generally not aggressive towards humans. The continued association with the term “What is the new fish with human teeth?” usually brings up these sensationalized stories.
The Pacu as an Invasive Species
In regions outside of its native South America, the Pacu is considered an invasive species. Their presence can disrupt local ecosystems by competing with native fish for food and habitat. In some areas, Pacu are also known to consume aquatic plants, potentially altering the structure and function of aquatic ecosystems. Control and management efforts are sometimes implemented to mitigate the negative impacts of Pacu populations.
The Role of the Pacu in Aquariums
Pacu are sometimes kept as aquarium fish, particularly by hobbyists with large tanks. However, their rapid growth rate and eventual large size (they can reach several feet in length) make them unsuitable for most home aquariums. Responsible aquarium keeping involves ensuring that Pacu are provided with adequate space and a suitable diet. Releasing Pacu into the wild is highly discouraged due to the potential for ecological damage.
Distinguishing Pacu from Piranha
While both are members of the same family, distinguishing between Pacu and Piranha is relatively straightforward. The most obvious difference is their teeth. Pacu have square, molar-like teeth adapted for crushing, while Piranha possess sharp, triangular teeth designed for tearing. Pacu also tend to be larger and more robust than Piranha.
| Feature | Pacu (Colossoma macropomum) | Piranha (Various species) |
|---|---|---|
| —————- | —————————— | ————————– |
| Teeth | Square, molar-like | Sharp, triangular |
| Diet | Omnivorous | Carnivorous |
| Size | Larger (up to 4ft) | Smaller (typically < 2ft) |
| Aggression | Generally non-aggressive | More aggressive |
Frequently Asked Questions About Pacu
What is the new fish with human teeth?
The phrase “fish with human teeth” almost always refers to the Pacu, a South American freshwater fish that possesses square, human-like teeth adapted for crushing nuts and fruits. This peculiar characteristic often leads to its description as a “fish with human teeth”.
Are Pacu dangerous to humans?
While Pacu can bite if provoked, they are generally not considered dangerous to humans. The sensationalized reports of attacks on male swimmers’ testicles are largely unsubstantiated and likely result from misidentification or coincidence.
What do Pacu eat?
Pacu are primarily omnivores, consuming a diet of fruits, nuts, seeds, and occasionally invertebrates or decaying matter. Their teeth are specifically adapted for crushing tough plant material.
Where do Pacu come from?
Pacu are native to the Amazon and Orinoco river basins in South America.
Why are Pacu found in places outside of South America?
Pacu have been introduced to various waterways around the world due to aquarium releases and escapes from aquaculture facilities.
Are Pacu invasive species?
Yes, in many regions outside of South America, Pacu are considered an invasive species due to their potential to disrupt local ecosystems.
How big do Pacu get?
Pacu can grow to a significant size, reaching several feet in length and weighing upwards of 50 pounds.
Can I keep a Pacu as a pet?
While Pacu are sometimes kept as aquarium fish, their large size and rapid growth rate make them unsuitable for most home aquariums.
What’s the difference between a Pacu and a Piranha?
The main differences lie in their teeth and diet. Pacu have square teeth for crushing and are primarily omnivores, while Piranha have sharp teeth for tearing and are carnivores.
Why do Pacu have teeth that look like human teeth?
The Pacu’s teeth are adapted for crushing nuts and fruits, which make up a significant portion of their diet. This dietary adaptation led to the evolution of their distinctive, human-like dentition.
What should I do if I catch a Pacu in a local waterway?
Contact your local fish and wildlife agency. They will be able to provide guidance on proper handling and reporting procedures for invasive species.
Is there any benefit to having Pacu in an ecosystem?
In their native ecosystem, Pacu play a role in seed dispersal by consuming fruits and nuts and then excreting the seeds. However, in non-native environments, their presence often has negative consequences.