The European Barracuda is one of the most capable and rapid predators of regional seas. The body is elongated and cylindrical, like a torpedo, and designed for lightning accelerations. Its most characteristic and intimidating feature is the long snout, armed with a series of sharp, uneven teeth that look like daggers. The lower jaw protrudes significantly from the upper jaw, giving the fish a constantly threatening appearance.

In the Mediterranean, two very similar species are encountered, even though they differ in distinct ways. The European Barracuda usually has a uniform silver grey colour without bold markings. The Yellowmouth Barracuda has spread in recent years and is distinguished by the bold dark vertical stripes on its body and its yellowish mouth. The name of the fish is often confused with that of the hammerhead shark, but they are completely different animals, as the latter is a shark.

This is a coastal pelagic species that lives in shallow waters, usually from the surface down to a depth of 100 metres. It enjoys patrolling near rocky shores, headlands, reefs, and shipwrecks as well as port entrances where small fish gather. Adult individuals of the yellowmouth species tend to form large and dense schools, while the common European barracuda is often more solitary as an adult.

The barracuda is a fairly large fish. Its usual length ranges from 40 to 80 centimetres. However, it can reach a maximum length of 1.6 metres for the European species and weigh between 6 and 8 kilograms.

The animal is a ruthless and voracious fish-eater. It hunts by setting ambushes or patrolling while relying on its vision and explosive speed to surprise its prey. It feeds almost exclusively on other fish, such as bogue, sardines, mullets, garfish, and sand smelts, as well as squid. It has the ability to cut its prey in half with a single bite.

Breeding of the barracuda takes place during the warm months of the year. In the Mediterranean, this period usually starts in May and peaks in July and August. The females release their eggs into the water, and these are pelagic.

Fisheries & Economic Value

It is one of the most popular catches for recreational fishers due to the great fight it provides. It is caught mainly by spinning from the shore and surface trolling from a boat, as it attacks artificial lures that look like small fish with fury. The meat is white, firm, and very delicious. Unlike the barracudas of the tropics, which can cause poisoning, the Mediterranean barracuda is safe for consumption.