Fin's Fish Guide
The Arrow barracuda (Sphyraena novaehollandiae) is a saltwater fish of the family Sphyraenidae that grows up to 100 cm.
Description
The Australian barracuda is a slender predator of the barracuda family (Sphyraenidae) occurring in temperate coastal waters around Australia and New Zealand. The species has an elongate, silvery-grey body with two separate dorsal fins and a large mouth with sharp teeth, and can reach about one metre. It occurs in channels and other semi-protected areas and hunts small fishes in schools. The Australian barracuda is a valued sport and food fish. Because of its sharp teeth a caught specimen must be handled with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Arrow barracuda?
The Arrow barracuda has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Large mouth with sharp teeth; hunts in shoals in channels and sheltered coastal waters.
Where does the Arrow barracuda live?
The Arrow barracuda lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Temperate coastal waters of southern Australia and New Zealand.
How big does the Arrow barracuda get?
The Arrow barracuda grows to a maximum of about 100 cm.
Is the Arrow barracuda dangerous to humans?
No, the Arrow barracuda is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but a fast predator with razor-sharp teeth: keep fingers away from the mouth of a caught or hooked fish. Clean any bite wound and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Arrow barracuda edible?
Yes, the Arrow barracuda is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sphyraena
More from the family Sphyraenidae
Want the complete picture on the Arrow barracuda?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Arrow barracuda is one of 12,519 species in the app.