Fin's Fish Guide
The Blunt barracuda (Sphyraena obtusata) is a brackish-water fish of the family Sphyraenidae that grows up to 55 cm.
Description
The obtuse barracuda is a barracuda of the family Sphyraenidae from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 55 cm and has an elongate, silvery, torpedo-shaped body with a large mouth full of sharp teeth and a slightly blunter snout than other barracudas. It inhabits bays and estuaries and forms schools in seagrass beds and around rocky reefs. As a fast predator it hunts small schooling fishes and shrimps. The obtuse barracuda is a valued food fish. The razor-sharp teeth can cause cuts when handling, so keep fingers away from the mouth.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blunt barracuda?
The Blunt barracuda has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Torpedo-shaped barracuda with a slightly blunter snout; razor-sharp teeth, schooling in seagrass.
Where does the Blunt barracuda live?
The Blunt barracuda lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; bays, estuaries, seagrass beds and rocky reefs.
How big does the Blunt barracuda get?
The Blunt barracuda grows to a maximum of about 55 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Blunt barracuda dangerous to humans?
No, the Blunt barracuda 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 Blunt barracuda edible?
Yes, the Blunt barracuda is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Blunt barracuda and live in the same waters.
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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 Blunt barracuda?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blunt barracuda is one of 12,519 species in the app.