Fin's Fish Guide
Yellowstripe barracuda
The Yellowstripe barracuda (Sphyraena chrysotaenia) is a saltwater fish of the family Sphyraenidae that grows up to 32 cm.
Originally the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea, in surface and coastal waters.
Description
The yellowstripe barracuda is a small, slender predator of the family Sphyraenidae reaching about 32 cm. The torpedo-shaped, silvery body bears a conspicuous yellow lengthwise stripe along the flank and has the projecting lower jaw with sharp teeth typical of barracudas. The species is native to the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea but has entered the eastern Mediterranean through the Suez Canal, where as a Lessepsian migrant it has become numerous in schools. In coastal water it hunts small schooling fish and shrimps at speed. Unlike the large tropical barracudas it is harmless to people. Through its numbers it has become a valued commercial fish in the eastern Mediterranean.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Yellowstripe barracuda?
The Yellowstripe barracuda has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Small, slender barracuda with a yellow longitudinal stripe along the silvery flank and a projecting lower jaw; a Lessepsian migrant.
Where does the Yellowstripe barracuda live?
The Yellowstripe barracuda lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Originally the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea, in surface and coastal waters.
How big does the Yellowstripe barracuda get?
The Yellowstripe barracuda grows to a maximum of about 32 cm.
Is the Yellowstripe barracuda dangerous to humans?
No, the Yellowstripe barracuda is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Yellowstripe barracuda edible?
Yes, the Yellowstripe barracuda is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Yellowstripe barracuda and live in the same waters.
Want the complete picture on the Yellowstripe barracuda?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Yellowstripe barracuda is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Yellowstripe barracuda?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Yellowstripe barracuda is one of 12,519 species in the app.