Fin's Fish Guide
The Red barracuda (Sphyraena pinguis) is a saltwater fish of the family Sphyraenidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Korea (South) and others
Description
The red barracuda is a barracuda (Sphyraenidae) from coastal waters of the northwest Pacific, off East Asia. The species grows to about 50 cm and has an elongate, silver-brown, torpedo-shaped body with a pointed head and a large mouth full of sharp teeth. As a fast predator it hunts small fish and crustaceans in schools over sand and reef bottoms. It is a food fish. With its sharp teeth it can bite if disturbed or when caught; caution is advised.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Red barracuda?
The Red barracuda has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey. Can bite with sharp teeth or powerful jaws; handle with care.
Where does the Red barracuda live?
The Red barracuda lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Korea (South) and others
How big does the Red barracuda get?
The Red barracuda grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Red barracuda dangerous to humans?
The Red barracuda can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. Barracudas have sharp teeth and can bite when caught or disturbed, sometimes attracted to glinting objects. For a bite: control bleeding with firm pressure, rinse with clean water and cover with a sterile dressing; always seek medical assessment and check tetanus status.
Is the Red barracuda edible?
Yes, the Red barracuda is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Red 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 Red barracuda?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Red barracuda is one of 12,519 species in the app.