Species · GBIF taxon 2394248
Yellowtail Barracuda
Sphyraena flavicaudaAlso known as Short-jawed Barracuda, Yellowtail Sennet, Golden-striped Barracuda
Yellowtail barracudas patrol coastal reefs and sandy lagoons in large, glittering schools, using their streamlined bodies to execute sudden bursts of speed. These slender predators are easily recognized by their bright yellow caudal fins and two dark longitudinal stripes running along their silver flanks. Unlike their solitary giant relatives, they rely on group coordination to corral and confuse schools of small fish.
SchoolingMarinePredatory
Licensed referenceJens Petersen / CC BY 2.5 · CC BY 2.5
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Anchovies
- Silversides
- Small Squid
Predators
- Reef Sharks
- Tuna
- Larger Barracudas
ThreatsOverfishing, coastal development, and coral reef degradation
HabitatsCoral reefs, coastal bays, sandy lagoons, and shallow estuaries
Life span5 to 8 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilySphyraenidae
- SpeciesSphyraena flavicauda
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Equipped with sharp teeth; avoid cornering or handling them while diving or fishing.
- Why it is dangerous
- Possesses sharp, dagger-like teeth and a powerful jaw capable of inflicting deep lacerations if handled or cornered.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Look for a slender silver body with a distinct yellow tail fin and two dark horizontal stripes.
- What to do
- Never attempt to touch or spear them, and maintain a calm, steady posture when swimming nearby.
Responsible observation
- Keep your distance: Observe schooling groups from a respectful distance to avoid scattering them.
- Avoid shiny objects: Refrain from wearing highly reflective jewelry, which can mimic the flash of prey fish.
- Watch for feeding behavior: Look for sudden, synchronized darting movements that indicate they are hunting.
Close Relative Hectonichus / CC BY-SA 4.0 · CC BY-SA 4.0
Image unavailableClose Relative Close Relative
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