Iburi Barracuda

Sphyraena iburiensis is a relatively recently identified species of barracuda within the genus Sphyraena, having been formally described in 2005. The etymology of the species' name is as follows: "Sphyraena" is derived from the Greek term "sphyraina," which refers to a type of fish, while "iburiensis" denotes its type locality, Iburi, located in Kochi Prefecture, 🇯🇵 Japan.

This species inhabits marine environments, specifically pelagic-neritic zones, and is adapted to subtropical climates. It reaches a maximum length of 23 cm and typically resides in shallow coastal waters.

Sphyraena iburiensis is predominantly found in the Eastern Pacific, with a distribution range extending from southern 🇯🇵 Japan to 🇹🇼 Taiwan. It can be distinguished from other barracuda species by its unique scale arrangement and the presence of two distinctive longitudinal stripes. The lower stripe is particularly notable, extending from the snout to the base of the caudal fin, positioned just below the lateral line. Additionally, this species is characterized by a completely transparent membrane on its first dorsal fin.