Have you ever heard of a fish that can swim up your urine stream? It may sound like a bizarre and terrifying phenomenon, but it is actually a real thing. This type of fish is called a Candiru, and it is known for its unique ability to swim into the urethra of unsuspecting swimmers.
What is a Candiru?
The Candiru is a parasitic freshwater catfish that is native to the Amazon Basin. It is also known as the toothpick fish due to its long and slender shape. The fish is usually only a few centimeters long, but it is notorious for its parasitic behavior.
How Does it Swim Up Urine Stream?
Contrary to popular belief, the Candiru does not actually swim up the urine stream. Instead, it is attracted to the odors and secretions of the human body, such as sweat and urine. It is believed that the fish can detect these odors from several feet away.
When a person enters the water, the Candiru will swim towards the source of the odor and attempt to attach itself to the skin. However, in some cases, the fish may mistake the urethra or other orifices for the source of the odor and attempt to swim inside.
Can it Kill You?
The Candiru is not usually deadly, but it can cause severe pain and discomfort if it enters the urethra. Once inside, the fish will use its spines to anchor itself to the walls of the urethra, making it difficult to remove. This can lead to inflammation, bleeding, and infection.
In rare cases, the Candiru has been known to penetrate the bladder or other organs, which can be life-threatening. However, these cases are extremely rare, and most people who encounter the fish simply experience a painful and embarrassing situation.
How to Avoid it?
If you are planning to swim in the Amazon Basin or other areas where the Candiru is found, there are several precautions you can take to avoid encountering the fish. First and foremost, avoid urinating in the water, as this can attract the fish. Secondly, avoid swimming in areas where the fish is known to be present. Finally, if you do encounter the fish, seek medical attention immediately.
The Bottom Line
The Candiru is a fascinating and terrifying fish that has captured the imaginations of people around the world. While it is not usually deadly, it can cause severe pain and discomfort if it enters the urethra. To avoid encountering the fish, it is important to take precautions when swimming in areas where it is known to be present.