How to Identify Yellowmouth Barracuda

To identify Yellowmouth Barracuda (Sphyraena viridensis), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Dorsal side typically dark grey to greenish-blue, fading to silvery-white on the flanks and belly. Often exhibits faint, irregular dark bars or blotches on the sides, which can be more pronounced in juveniles or when stressed. The inside of the mouth and gill covers are distinctly yellow, giving rise to its common name 'Yellowmouth Barracuda'.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

superior

Distinctive features

Elongated, cylindrical body, tapering towards the tail., Large, pointed head with a prominent lower jaw that protrudes beyond the upper jaw., Powerful jaws armed with two rows of sharp, conical teeth: an outer row of small, closely set teeth and an inner row of larger, widely spaced, dagger-like teeth., Large, well-developed eyes., Distinctive yellow coloration inside the mouth and on the gill covers., Two widely separated dorsal fins.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first dorsal fin has 5 strong spines, and the second dorsal fin has 1 spine and 9 soft rays. The first dorsal fin originates above or slightly behind the pectoral fin base. The second dorsal fin is positioned directly above the anal fin.

Tail fin

Strongly forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Relatively small, positioned low on the body.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are small and abdominal, located beneath the pectoral fins. Anal fin has 2 spines and 8 soft rays, similar in shape and size to the second dorsal fin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Mouth Coloration

   The most reliable distinguishing feature is the bright yellow coloration inside the mouth and on the gill covers, which is unique among barracuda species in its range.

2. 2

   Body Markings

   While variable, S. viridensis often displays faint, irregular dark bars or blotches on its sides, which are less distinct than the prominent vertical bars seen on some other barracuda species (e.g., Sphyraena barracuda).

3. 3

   Fin Placement

   The origin of the first dorsal fin is typically above or slightly behind the pectoral fin base, and the second dorsal fin is directly above the anal fin.

4. 4

   Jaw Structure

   The prominent lower jaw extending beyond the upper jaw, coupled with the formidable teeth, is characteristic of all barracudas, but the overall body shape and coloration help differentiate S. viridensis.

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