The Striped Barracuda, Dingo Fish, Obtuse Barracuda, Pike, Sennit, Short-finned Seapike, Short-finned Sea-pike, Short-jawed Sea-pike, Striped Sea Pike, Yellowstripe Barracuda, Yellowtail, Yellowtail Barracuda, Yellowtail Sennit, scientifically known as Sphyraena obtusata, is a species of fish belonging to the barracuda family, Sphyraenidae. This fish is commonly found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide.
Description & Characteristics
The Sphyraena obtusata is characterized by its elongated, torpedo-shaped body with a slightly compressed head. It can grow to a maximum size of 55.0 cm. This barracuda has a distinctive color pattern, with a yellow stripe running along its flanks and a yellow tail. Its teeth are sharp and pointed, a characteristic trait of barracuda species.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Sphyraena obtusata exhibits a preference for shallow coastal waters, including reefs, bays, and estuaries. They typically inhabit depths ranging from 5.0 to 200.0 meters. This species is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, making it a prevalent presence in these aquatic ecosystems.
Taxonomy
The species Sphyraena obtusata belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Carangaria incertae sedis, and Family: Sphyraenidae. This classification places the species within a group of ray-finned fishes, further categorized as belonging to the suborder Carangaria incertae sedis, and ultimately, the family Sphyraenidae, commonly known as the barracuda family.
Feeding
The Sphyraena obtusata is a carnivorous predator. Its diet primarily consists of fish, including coralfish, small fish, and other nektonic organisms. Its sharp teeth and predatory nature make it a formidable hunter in its marine environment.
Image References