Fin's Fish Guide
The Great barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda) is a brackish-water fish of the family Sphyraenidae that grows up to 200 cm.
Worldwide in tropical and subtropical seas; occasionally straying into the Mediterranean Sea and along warm Atlantic coasts.
Description
The great barracuda is a slender, fast predator of the family Sphyraenidae that can reach about 200 cm. The silvery-grey, streamlined body has a long, pointed head with a projecting lower jaw and a mouth full of large, dagger-like teeth; a few irregular dark blotches often mark the rear flank. The species occurs worldwide in warm seas and appears occasionally in the Mediterranean. Adults live solitarily near reefs, juveniles in mangroves and shallow water. The barracuda is a fast ambush hunter that takes fish with short bursts. It is eaten, but large specimens can cause ciguatera poisoning.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Great barracuda?
The Great barracuda has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Slender, fast predator with a long snout, a projecting lower jaw and large, dagger-like teeth; often with a few dark blotches on the rear flank. Note: in tropical areas 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 Great barracuda live?
The Great barracuda lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Worldwide in tropical and subtropical seas; occasionally straying into the Mediterranean Sea and along warm Atlantic coasts.
How big does the Great barracuda get?
The Great barracuda grows to a maximum of about 200 cm. On average the species is around 140 cm.
Is the Great barracuda dangerous to humans?
The Great barracuda can cause injury; handle it with care. May bite swimmers in murky water or when attracted to shiny objects; do not touch the fish and avoid wearing glittering jewellery. Large specimens can cause ciguatera poisoning if eaten.
Is the Great barracuda edible?
Yes, the Great barracuda is commonly eaten.
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All data
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
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Status & sources
Same genus Sphyraena
More from the family Sphyraenidae
Want the complete picture on the Great barracuda?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Great barracuda is one of 12,519 species in the app.