Fin's Fish Guide
The Yellowmouth barracuda (Sphyraena viridensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Sphyraenidae that grows up to 128 cm.
Mediterranean Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, in surface and coastal waters, often at reef edges.
Description
The yellowmouth barracuda is a large, slender predator of the family Sphyraenidae reaching about 1.3 metres. The torpedo-shaped, silvery body bears dark, oblique cross-bars and has a yellowish tinge inside the mouth, from which the species takes its name; the lower jaw projects and is set with sharp teeth. It resembles the European barracuda but grows larger and has clearer bars. The species lives in surface and coastal waters of the Mediterranean and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, often near reef edges and in curious schools that sometimes circle divers. It hunts small schooling fish such as sardine, anchovy and horse mackerel at speed. The yellowmouth barracuda is a valued, sporting sport and food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Yellowmouth barracuda?
The Yellowmouth barracuda has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Large barracuda with dark, oblique vertical bars on the silvery flank and a yellowish tinge inside the mouth; often forms curious shoals.
Where does the Yellowmouth barracuda live?
The Yellowmouth barracuda lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Mediterranean Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, in surface and coastal waters, often at reef edges.
How big does the Yellowmouth barracuda get?
The Yellowmouth barracuda grows to a maximum of about 128 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Yellowmouth barracuda dangerous to humans?
No, the Yellowmouth barracuda is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Yellowmouth barracuda edible?
Yes, the Yellowmouth barracuda is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Yellowmouth 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 Yellowmouth barracuda?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Yellowmouth barracuda is one of 12,519 species in the app.