Great Barracuda

Sphyraena barracuda

Smaller Great Barracudas can be found in shallow inshore waters over sandy bottoms, frequently in schools. Larger individuals are more often found offshore and are usually solitary. Great Barracudas feed chiefly on fishes and occasionally on squids and shrimps. They are curious fish, and often follow snorkelers or divers. Attacks on humans are rare and probably occur when barracudas try to take speared fish from divers.

Look For : A slender fish with 2 dorsal fins and a large mouth. Gray above; silvery sides. Dark spots above anal fin.

Length : 6'.

Habitat : Warm coastal waters, open ocean. Juveniles often near shore.

Range : Pacific and Atlantic coasts. Caution: Known to attack swimmers.