The Hotel Pousada do Rio Mutum, which is located in the Pantanal region of Barao de Melgaco, is a popular destination for tourists. Unfortunately, one of the items offered on the Pousada do Rio Mutum's menu is piranha soup. This is despite the fact that piranhas have very little meat on them.

It is a common misconception that fish do not feel pain. This belief has allowed many people to justify the cruelty they inflict upon piranhas (and many other fish species).

However, fish can and do feel pain and recent studies have provided the scientific evidence to prove this. A study done by Joseph Garner of Purdue University (2009) reported that these animals do experience pain consciously, rather than simply reacting with a reflex. Many other studies have resulted in similar evidence. The ability of fish to perceive pain and discomfort makes the bid for their welfare extremely important.

Furthermore, the hotel should be promoting a respect for local wildlife, not the harvesting and killing of it. The piranhas that are used for food are captured from their homes, killed, and then sold-off as commodities.

For more information see:

www.savethepiranhas.com