Have you ever heard of a fish that can swim up your pee stream? Sounds crazy, right? But it's actually true. There are certain species of fish that are known to do this, and it's not just an urban legend.
What is the Candiru Fish?
The fish in question is called the Candiru fish, also known as the toothpick fish. It's a parasitic freshwater catfish that is found in the Amazon River and its tributaries. The fish is small, only about 2.5 cm long, and has a translucent body.
The Candiru fish is known for its parasitic behavior. It attaches itself to the gills of larger fish and feeds on their blood. However, it's also known to be attracted to urea, which is found in urine. This is where the legend of the fish swimming up your pee stream comes from.
Can the Candiru Fish Really Swim Up Your Pee Stream?
While it's true that the Candiru fish is attracted to urea, it's not as simple as it swimming up your pee stream. The fish is actually too large to swim up the urethra of a human or any other mammal.
However, there have been cases where the fish has been known to enter the urethra of humans. This usually happens when someone urinates in the water where the fish is present, and the fish mistakes the stream for a larger fish. The fish then enters the urethra and becomes stuck.
What Happens if a Candiru Fish Enters Your Urethra?
If a Candiru fish enters your urethra, it can cause a lot of pain and discomfort. The fish has spines on its body that can become embedded in the walls of the urethra, making it difficult to remove. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove the fish.
There have been reports of people dying from complications related to a Candiru fish entering their urethra, but these cases are rare. However, it's still important to be aware of the risks and take precautions to avoid contact with the fish.
How to Avoid Contact with Candiru Fish
If you're planning on swimming in the Amazon River or its tributaries, there are a few things you can do to avoid contact with the Candiru fish:
- Don't urinate in the water.
- Avoid swimming in areas where the fish is known to be present.
- If you must urinate in the water, do so far away from the shore.
- Wear protective clothing, such as a wetsuit or long-sleeved shirt and pants.
The Bottom Line
The Candiru fish is a real creature, and while it's not as scary as the legend makes it out to be, it's still important to take precautions to avoid contact with the fish. If you're planning on swimming in the Amazon River or its tributaries, be aware of the risks and take the necessary steps to protect yourself.