Piranhas Debut At Prospect Park Zoo

NEW YORK (1010 WINS) -- School is in session at the Prospect Park Zoo.

Eighteen red and orange bellied piranhas have made their debut at the zoo's Flooded Forest exhibit.

The Wildlife Conservation Society says that even though piranhas have a reputation for viciously attacking unsuspecting prey, as depicted in many movies including this summer's "Piranha 3d," they are actually docile and prefer to scavenge for food rather than hunt.

The South American freshwater fish are sharing their tank with a black and white pearl stingray. WCS says the two make a good team since the stingray is also a scavenger. The pearl ray picks up whatever food is left behind after feeding time and helps keep the tank clean.

Prospect Park Zoo, located on Flatbush Avenue, is open every day of the year.  For more information call 718-399-7339 or go to  www.prospectparkzoo.com