Great Barracuda

Sphyraena barracuda

The great barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda) is a fast, ambush-oriented predator common in tropical and subtropical coastal waters. Adults occur around reefs, seagrass edges, channels, and open nearshore waters, while juveniles often use sheltered habitats such as mangroves and estuaries.

Mass (typical / record)

50 kg

Top speed

48 km/h

Body length

1.5 m

Diet

Carnivore

Habitats

coastal waters, coral reefs, estuaries

IUCN: LC (Least Concern)

A notorious source of ciguatera fish poisoning when consumed in certain reef regions. Their torpedo-shaped body, mirror-like scales, and needle teeth have made them a symbol of speed and aggression in fishing culture and underwater photography.