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 freeze-dried/frozen fish and shrimp.
Feeding regime
- Feed once or twice a day.
Environment Specifics
- This fish must have a large 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. The caudal fin is forked with a few black spots on the caudal peduncle.