Fin's Fish Guide
The Guinean barracuda (Sphyraena afra) is a brackish-water fish of the family Sphyraenidae that grows up to 205 cm.
Eastern Atlantic off West Africa; continental shelf, lagoons and estuaries.
Description
The Guinean barracuda is a large barracuda of the family Sphyraenidae from the eastern Atlantic off West Africa. The species grows to about two metres and has an elongate, silvery, torpedo-shaped body with a large mouth full of razor-sharp teeth and a projecting lower jaw. It inhabits the continental shelf and often enters lagoons and estuaries. As a fast, powerful apex predator it hunts schooling fishes. The Guinean barracuda is a valued sport and food fish. The razor-sharp teeth can cause serious cuts when handling; keep fingers away from the mouth.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Guinean barracuda?
The Guinean barracuda has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Large, powerful West African barracuda with razor-sharp teeth and a protruding lower jaw. 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 Guinean barracuda live?
The Guinean barracuda lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Eastern Atlantic off West Africa; continental shelf, lagoons and estuaries.
How big does the Guinean barracuda get?
The Guinean barracuda grows to a maximum of about 205 cm. On average the species is around 100 cm.
Is the Guinean barracuda dangerous to humans?
The Guinean barracuda can cause injury; handle it with care. 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 Guinean barracuda edible?
Yes, the Guinean barracuda is commonly eaten.
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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 Guinean barracuda?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Guinean barracuda is one of 12,519 species in the app.