|
(Click for large pic. 27Kb)
The Barracuda is among the largest of the group; it attains a length of 2.4 m (8 feet) and a weight of 45 kg (100 ]b.), and is found in offshore waters of the entire Queensland coastline. Juveniles are frequently captured in estuaries; they are particularly common in the Noosa River (S. Qld.) where they may he taken by anglers flicking for Striped Sea‑pike (or Yellowtail),
Young Barracuda are readily distinguishable in their overall gunmetal‑grey coloration, and the presence of milk‑white tips to the dorsal, caudal, and anal fins. Adults are dull‑grey above and silvery below; there are about 18 greyish cross‑bands on the back. Dark irregular blotches of colour may be present on the trunk and the tail.It is a diagnostic character that the great teeth in the lower jaw are vertical, and the first two dorsal spines of equal length.
The larger fish are often taken by Mackerel‑trollers on fish‑baits and lures; their large size combined with their fearsome array of teeth demand that they he handled with some caution. Although a hard‑fighting sport-fish, the Barracuda is not held in high esteem as an edible species, the flesh being rank, coarse, and flavourless.
|
)
