Diver Bitten By Protective Piranhas While Searching Mae Klong River
A rescue diver searching for a missing person in Thailand's Mae Klong River was bitten on the ear by a protective piranha guarding its eggs, with tests later revealing the fish's razor-sharp teeth can easily sever a water hose.
Piranha fish guarding their eggs bite rescue diver searching for missing person in Mae Klong River, ear partially severed. On August 17, 2025, Chalermpun Hongyant, known as "Koh Yai," chairman of Water Rescue Club Region 7 and a celebrated diver in Kanchanaburi Province, posted a video of a piranha fish on Facebook. His team tested the fish's bite strength by allowing it to bite a water hose. The results showed teeth sharper than a razor blade, which severed the hose easily and generated significant public interest.
Koh Yai explained: "We are investigating the behavior of Mae Klong River piranhas, a fascinating species in this river's ecosystem. This observation helps us better understand their nature and demonstrates the local biodiversity," with many followers commenting on the post.
Koh Yai recounted that he and his water rescue team had been searching for a missing 46-year-old man in Mae Klong River in Tha Pha subdistrict, Ban Pong district, Ratchaburi Province for over 10 days without success. On August 15, the team relocated their search to another area in Phaik Phai subdistrict, Ban Pong district. While diving, Koh Yai suddenly felt pain in his ear as if bitten by an aquatic creature and surfaced immediately. His ear was found to be severely bitten. Suspecting the cause, the team dove together until they found a piranha, confirming it was responsible.
Currently it is piranha spawning season. The fish lay eggs in clear, calm areas with vegetation or rocky crevices, and become highly aggressive during this period to protect their nests. Koh Yai suspects he may have been near the piranha's nest while searching for the missing person.
