Wahoo and Barracuda: What are the Key Differences?

Barracudas are large, saltwater fish from the genus Sphyraena. Their bodies are long and protrude at the lower jaw. They also have prominent fang-shaped teeth that show aggressive tendencies. Acanthocybium solandri is also known as the Wahoo. This tropical and subtropical gamefish looks very much like Barracuda. They are quite different, however, if you look closely. Let’s explore.

The Key Differences between Wahoo & Barracuda

The main difference between the Barracuda (or Wahoo) and the Wahoo is that the Barracuda denotes a genus of fish, while the Wahoo denotes a specific species. We will be discussing eight other important differences between the two types of fish in the next paragraphs. These include their physical characteristics, their environment, and what they eat.

Wahoo vs Barracuda Size

The Atlantic wahoo can reach 8 feet in length and weigh 158 pounds. However, the average Atlantic wahoo length is between 3 to 5 feet. A mature barracuda can grow to lengths of 5-6 feet and weigh at least 102 lbs.

Wahoo vs Barracuda: Colors

Wahoos are almost silvery and have barely discernable scales. However, when they get excited, their bodies glow with blue stripes. The large Barracuda’s dorsum and top are brownish to bluish-grey with a greenish tone that fades to silver.

Wahoo vs Barracuda – Physical Features

The Dorsal Fin of the Wahoo is very long. Its body is also streamlined and long. It has triangular, sharp teeth and a forked tail. Their jaws are wide, and their noses are as long as their heads are.

Barracuda, like piranhas, have prominent, fang-like, sharp-edged teeth in their sockets. They lack spines and have gill covers that are covered with small scales.

Wahoo vs Barracuda: Danger

Wahoos can cut through their prey and then swallow the pieces thanks to their amazing teeth. Because they are extremely fast, they can be hard to catch and handle. Even after their deaths, wahoos can be dangerous if you touch their razor-sharp teeth.

Some barracuda species may threaten aquatic life. Although it has been reported that Barracuda has bitten swimmers in the past, this is a rare occurrence due to poor visibility.

Wahoo vs Barracuda: Diet

Grunts and groupers, snapper, little fish, anchovies, anchovies, killifish, groupers, snapper, snappers, grunts, and groupers are just a few large fish barracudas eat. Barracudas are large-mouthed and have sharp teeth.

The Wahoo’s primary food sources are a variety of fish, including mackerel and butterfish. The Wahoo’s sharp teeth allow it to eat larger prey.

Wahoo vs Barracuda – Lifespan

Wahoos live for 5-6 years. According to estimates, Great barracudas can live up to 15 years.

Wahoo vs Barracuda Habitat

Barracuda are found in tropical and subtropical areas and shallow waterways with submerged reefs. Mangroves, open oceans, beaches, and open seas are common habitats. Although it is most common in the western Atlantic Ocean, the great Barracuda can be found in tropical and subtropical oceans.

Wahoos can be found in tropical and subtropical water around the world. They are found year-round in tropical waters, but they migrate to warmer latitudes during the summer. Mexico is surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico, Pacific Ocean and Wahoo-filled waters.

Wahoo vs Barracuda – Habits

Wahoos live alone. Sometimes they form small groups or pairs around food. They actively seek out prey and avoid hiding or ambushing. Barracudas hunt by sight and often approach divers or spear fishers by mistake. Barracudas grow up to be solitary hunters. However, young barracudas can gather together in large numbers.

Wrapping up Wahoo and Barracuda

Despite superficial similarities, barracudas and wahoos are two different fish families. The Barracuda’s teeth resemble fangs, while the Wahoo’s teeth resemble needles. The Wahoo’s dorsal Fin is also significantly longer. They have different habitats, activities, nutritional needs, and even their nutrition.