Barracuda
A ray-finned fish known for its fearsome appearance and ferocious attack. It is found in tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide, ranging from the Eastern border of the Atlantic Ocean to the Red Sea and Caribbean Sea. They swim near the top of the water and near coral reefs and sea grasses.
In any one place, the number appearing will gather but will circle prey for many rounds before attacking. They will then strike with a single burst of lightning speed, moving up to 18 hexes in a single round. They will do this only once per encounter. Because of this, like sharks, they are dangerous to swimmers.
Once they have attacked, they will off to allow others of their group to attack, which each will, one at a time. If no blood is drawn during these attacks, all the barracudas will move off. If there is blood, the barracudas will then begin to move in at once to finish the kill.
Barracudas are popular as game fish and are eaten as fillets or steaks. For West Africans, the fish is a delicacy, being smoked for use in soups and sauces.
See Bestiary.
