Great Barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda)
From The Aquarium Wiki
Great Barracuda
Sphyraena barracuda
3785 Litres (1000 US G.)
180-200 cm (70.9-78.7")
8.1 - 8.4
22 -26 °C (71.6-78.8°F)
8-12 °d
1:1 M:F
9-12 years
Family
Sphyraenidae
Contents
Additional names
- Commerson's Sea Pike, Barra, Snoek, Short Barracuda, Striped Seapike, Barracouta
Additional scientific names
- Agrioposphyraena barracuda, Esox barracuda
Origin
- Commonly found in oceans worldwide
Sexing
- Males, and females are virtually indistinguishable
Tank compatibility
- This fish is best kept in pairs or in groups. It cannot be housed with smaller fish as they will be eaten.
Diet
- A carnivorous fish that may prove difficult to wean onto dead food. Does well on meaty foods such as earthworms and crickets.
Feeding regime
- Feed once or twice a day.
Environment Specifics
- This fish must have a long tank, with a secure lid as they may jump. Found on open water, and reefs.
Behaviour
- A top-dwelling predator. Often found solitary or in shoals, with adults commingling with juveniles.
Identification
- An elongated slender fish with a long snout and mouth, the upper jaw being slightly longer than the lower. The body is iridescent silver in colour with spots towards the caudal penduncle. The caudal fin is forked with a black spot on the caudal peduncle.