European Barracuda
Sphyraena sphyraena
Sighting evidence at Cleopatra Island Reef, Marmaris
Photo: Christian Amador Da Silva · © all rights reserved
European barracuda form loose aggregations at the current-swept northern tip of Cleopatra Island, using the reef structure to ambush the shoaling bream and damselfish that concentrate in the upwelling. They are typically seen in groups of 10 to 50 individuals hovering in mid-water at depths of 10 to 25 metres, their silver flanks flickering as they align with the current. Early morning dives before boat traffic disperses the shoals offer the most dramatic barracuda encounters.
Evidence at this site
No confirmed records on file at this site
European Barracuda is listed as a curated species here based on historical reports.