Snorkeling in Key West for Great Barracuda

Snorkeling in Key West affords divers the opportunity to see some of the most fascinating fish to swim in the oceans. One of these is the great barracuda, a ray-finned fish that can grow up to six feet long, and is sometimes referred to the giant barracuda. Barracudas often favor habitats that are near shoreline coral reefs, located near long seagrasses, or that are populated with unruly mangrove roots. They use the thick and heavy reef cover to hide out and wait for schools of smaller fish. Because barracudas tend to favor coverage, and because they are solitary swimmers, the predatory fish can be difficult to spot on dives. They have sharp teeth, and a slender, streamlined shiny body that is round at the middle. They have a flat forehead and a protruding jaw, which is helpful in securing bait fish and swimming for cover at the same time. The fish features a brownish or blue gray coloration on its dorsum and upper side, and a belly that is white in color.

For those Snorkeling in Key West, the giant barracuda poses virtually no threat. However, experienced divers suggest that people remove their flashy jewelry because the barracuda is attracted to shiny and reflective objects that resemble the way sunlight glances off of its prey.