Fin's Fish Guide
The Barracouta (Thyrsites atun) is a brackish-water fish of the family Gempylidae that grows up to 200 cm.
Cooler waters of the southern hemisphere; pelagic above the continental shelf and around islands.
Description
The snoek or barracouta is a large, fast predator of the snake mackerel family (Gempylidae) from the cooler waters of the southern hemisphere. The species grows to about two metres and has an elongate, silvery body with a large mouth full of razor-sharp teeth. It lives pelagically over the continental shelf and around islands and forms schools. As a fast hunter it feeds on pelagic crustaceans (krill), squid and small schooling fishes. The snoek is a very important commercial fish eaten fresh and smoked. The sharp teeth can cause cuts when handling; keep fingers away from the mouth.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Barracouta?
The Barracouta has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Fast, schooling predator with razor-sharp teeth; important commercial fish of the southern hemisphere.
Where does the Barracouta live?
The Barracouta lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Cooler waters of the southern hemisphere; pelagic above the continental shelf and around islands.
How big does the Barracouta get?
The Barracouta grows to a maximum of about 200 cm. On average the species is around 75 cm.
Is the Barracouta dangerous to humans?
No, the Barracouta is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but the razor-sharp teeth can cause cuts when handling; keep fingers away from the mouth of a caught or hooked fish. Clean any wound and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Barracouta edible?
Yes, the Barracouta is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Gempylidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Barracouta is one of 12,519 species in the app.