Barracuda

:This article is about the fish. For the submarine, see Barracuda class submarines.

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The barracuda (Sphyraenus, family Sphyraenidae) is a ray-finned fish notable for its large size (up to 1.8 m or 6 ft) and fearsome appearance. The one genus of the family includes about 25 known species.

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The barracuda body is elongated, with the lower jaw of the large mouth jutting out, and displaying prominent fang-shaped teeth. The two dorsal fins are widely separated, with the first having five spines and the second one spine and nine soft rays. The lateral line is prominent.

Related Topics:
Dorsal fin - Lateral line

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They are caught as food and game fish (however, barracuda flesh can occasionally contain ciguatera toxin).

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