Over 20 people attacked by piranhas in 'feeding frenzy' in Brazil

Rex

Around 20 bathers were left with wounds to their hands and feet after being attacked by piranhas in a river in southern Brazil.

The attack happened on Sunday when a school of palometas, a species of piranha, shocked hundreds of tourists bathing at a beach in Toropi, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul.

According to news.com.au, lifeguards said 20 bathers were treated at the scene for wounds to hands and feet.

A report on smh.com.au said low water levels in the river resulting in a shortage of food sources could have prompted the "feeding frenzy".

Back in November 2011, 15 swimmers were attacked by piranhas at a popular tourist spot in Brazil.

One woman even lost part of her toe. According to the Mirror, Elson de Campos Pintos said: 'I took a dip in the river and when I stood up, I felt pain in my foot.

'I saw that I had lost the tip of my toe. I took off running out of the river, afraid that I would be further attacked because of the blood. I'm not going back in for a long time.'

We don't blame her...


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