Critter Science

With razor sharp teeth and a body built for speed, the barracuda is a fish to be reckoned with. Their curious nature also tends to bring them into close contact with divers and spear fishermen. These fish can be found in oceans around the world. Most reside in warm tropical and subtropical waters. They can be found in coral reefs, the open ocean, and even in the shallower, brackish waters of mangrove forests. Barracuda’s are able to swim at depths of up to 325+ feet. There are 30 known species of barracuda. Even though they are a popular sport fish and can suffer at the hands of pollution and bycatch (getting mistakenly caught in fishing nets), these fish are listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.

First the Stats… Scientific name: Sphyraena Weight: Up to 100 lbs. Length: Up to 5+ feet Lifespan: Up to 14+ years

Now on to the Facts! 1.) The great barracuda is the biggest member of this family.

2.) Barracudas are ambush predators that use surprise and speed to catch unsuspecting fish.

3.) They prey on all kinds of smaller fish, crustaceans, and squid.

4.) These fish are attracted to shiny objects. Ooh, shiny!

5.) Juveniles are typically seen in shallower water, while adults prefer the open sea and reefs.

But wait, there’s more on the barracuda! 6.) They are nocturnal (active at night). But can still be seen during the day ( diurnal ).

7.) Orcas and sharks prey on barracudas.

Did you know…? Barracudas can swim at speeds of up to 36 mph! This ranks them among the fastest fish in the sea.

8.) Mating season takes place in spring.

9.) Females release up to 1,000 eggs which the male fertilizes. The eggs are left to the fates.

10.) Only a handful of juveniles will make it to adulthood.

Now a Short Barracuda Video!

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Learn more about all kinds of cool critters, right here ! toolTips('.classtoolTips16','

Predation is the ecological process by which an animal (or an organism) kills and feeds on another. The animal that kills to feed is called a predator . The 1 that is killed to be eaten is called prey.

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Organisms that are nocturnal are active at night. Animals that fit into this category are typically prey animals that rely on the cover of darkness as a defense. Granted, there are no shortage of predators at night. Some organisms adopt a nocturnal lifestyle due to climate issues. Many desert dwelling animals are nocturnal as it is simply cooler outside at night. Aardvarks , badgers , bandicoots , and aye-ayes are just some examples of nocturnal creatures.'); toolTips('.classtoolTips31','

An animal that falls into this category is active during the day. Animals that fit this description typically use sight for hunting prey. Others, like turtles , are active during the day as they need the sun\'s rays to aid in the production of vitamin D, which is needed to help process calcium and prevent metabolic bone disease. Hummingbirds rely on the sun as most of the nectar they gather comes from flowers that are open during the day. Cows , dogs , elephants , butterflies , and squirrels , for example, are diurnal.');

barracuda

The Lightning Quick Barracuda

The Ferocious Great Barracuda