Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded barracuda (Sphyraena jello) is a brackish-water fish of the family Sphyraenidae that grows up to 150 cm.
Description
The pickhandle barracuda is a barracuda (Sphyraenidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has an elongate, silvery, torpedo-shaped body with oblique dark bars or chevrons on the flank and a large mouth full of sharp teeth. It keeps near current-swept lagoon and seaward reefs, and also in bays and estuaries. As a fast, sight-hunting predator it catches mainly fishes. It is not venomous, but the sharp teeth can inflict a serious bite wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded barracuda?
The Banded barracuda has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Torpedo-shaped, sight-hunting predator with oblique bars on the flanks and sharp teeth. Note: in tropical regions this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with caution or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Banded barracuda live?
The Banded barracuda lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; reefs, bays and estuaries.
How big does the Banded barracuda get?
The Banded barracuda grows to a maximum of about 150 cm. On average the species is around 120 cm.
Is the Banded barracuda dangerous to humans?
The Banded barracuda is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Not venomous, but the sharp teeth can inflict a serious bite wound; keep your distance and handle caught or cornered animals carefully. Clean a bite wound thoroughly and seek medical care for deep wounds or infection.
Is the Banded barracuda edible?
Yes, the Banded 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 Banded barracuda?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded barracuda is one of 12,519 species in the app.