By Obiabin Onukwugha
Barracuda is of the genus Sphyraena, the only genus in the family Sphyraenidae, which was named by Constantine Samuel Rafinesque in 1815.
It is found in tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide ranging from the eastern border of the Atlantic Ocean to the Red Sea, on its western border the Caribbean Sea, in tropical areas of the Pacific Ocean. Barracudas reside near the top of the water and near coral reefs and sea grasses.
Barracudas are ferocious, opportunistic predators, relying on surprise and short bursts of speed, up to 27 mph (43 km/h), to overtake their prey.
They’re specifically a salt water fish, but, more than that, they strike fear into the hearts of fish everywhere. Some of the most incredible barracuda facts have to do with both their reputation, and their fearsome nature.
As a whole, barracudas are some of the most proficient hunters in the ocean. And, they make popular targets for sport fishermen. Thus Barracudas don’t just look like extreme predators, they are extreme predators.
They are built for speed, that combined with their fantastic eyesight and sharp teeth, enables them to hunt large fish. Barracudas can swim up to 36 mph, when they hit a fish, and are capable of actually biting it in half.
When hunting prey, the Barracuda patiently waits for the best time to attack, sporting its camouflage unmoving. They symbolize patience, willpower, and concealment.
As their attack needs to be quick and powerful, they rely on the element of surprise as well as their speed. This earns them their title, “Thieves of the Sea” as well as the “Tigers of the Sea”.
Scientists say while Barracudas are not poisonous, humans that consume them could get poisoned. This is because of the Ciguatoxin accumulated from the food of their prey.
This process is called bioaccumulation. One can say that this occurrence could symbolize how purposeful they could be.
This toxin is harmless to them but is harmful to those that consume them. This, along with its ability to camouflage, shows that they are great in avoiding danger.
Like swordfish and marlin, barracuda are not easy to fish. This makes them a favorite of game anglers.
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Though researchers are not able to point out the exact way with which the barracuda reproduces, they say, after maturation, the mature great barracuda ventures out into the open ocean.
They say, male great barracudas reach sexual maturity two years prior to the female species when they are two years old, while the female maturity is four years. Adults of most species are more or less solitary, while young and half-grown fish frequently congregate.
Barracuda As Totem Animal: It is said that barracuda people are most often spiritual warriors, not afraid of challenges and are more than happy to rise to the occasion.
They are persistent, especially if it is for their own time. They find great joy in spending more time with themselves, not necessarily being introverted. They are okay with not fitting in if it means disciplining and restraining themselves from bad impulses.
People with the Barracuda totem may not always be successful in having one, but they are painfully aware of the importance of work-and-play balance. They have a strong inclination for transformation. Change doesn’t scare them and probably even crave for it.
In native American symbolism, it is believed that the Native Americans link Barracudas to male warrior energy. Its fierceness is regarded as a symbol of protection and defense.
In the far East, in Feng Shui traditional belief, it is lucky to have silver and gold figurines of the Barracuda fish. They are believed to attract prosperity.
Generally, it is said that Barracuda if you dream of a Barracuda, it means wildness, aggression, and danger. You need to find which aspect of your life is being affected.
You have to be aware of it and to deal with it so that it doesn’t do you damage in your relationships with others or with yourself. You need to find a good way to release this aggression and possibly in a productive and healthy way.
Also, if your dream includes Barracuda waiting in the mud, it means of something dangerous about you that you are not aware of. You need to take an intensive look at your life and your current situation so that you can address this danger as soon as possible.
However, if it is waiting amongst the sea grass or the reefs, it is a warning that something bad is coming your way.
Should the Barracuda be swimming swiftly in your dream, it means you are being reckless. If you are currently faced with a decision, it would be best to think on it and let it soak first.
Again, if the Barracuda in your dream starts to change colors, blending in its surroundings, it means that you need to do the same. Right now is not the time to stand out.
If you encounter a Barracuda with a prey in its mouth, it is a warning that something is holding you back. If you want to look at it in a literal sense, someone might be intending to trap you, so beware.
