Barracudas occur both singly and in schools around reefs, but
also appear in open seas. They are voracious predators and
hunt using a classic example of lie-in-wait or ambush. They
rely on surprise and short bursts of speed (up to 27mph) to
overrun their prey, sacrificing maneuverability.
The larger barracudas are more or less solitary in their habits. Young and half-grown fish frequently congregate in shoals. Their food is composed of fish of all types. Large barracudas, when gorged, may attempt to herd a shoal of prey fish in shallow water, where they guard over them until they are ready for another meal.
