There are several species of barracuda, a saltwater fish, ranging from those about the size of a salmon to some close to six feet in length. All have razor-sharp teeth and strong jaws and are swift, fearless and destructive.
The great barracuda are found in the warm Atlantic waters of the West Indies, Florida and the Bahamas. These grow to six feet long and are more dangerous to sea life than a shark. Smaller species also make their homes in the Atlantic Ocean off the shores of Cape Cod south to Brazil. Those in Pacific Ocean waters are active from Canada to Panama and are mostly among the smaller species, rarely attacking people.
One called the California barracuda, about three feet long, is among the nicer-looking species, black-gray on top with silver or yellow sides and white stomachs. Others have dark green or blue backs with dark bars on backs and sides. Actually these colors change somewhat at times, usually to blend in with their surroundings.
These brutal creatures often make a trial bite of a prospective victim before eating it. Even when not hungry some make sport with a victim and then may leave without attacking it.
Barracuda eat just about anything that moves, but favorites include sardines, anchovies, silversides and mackerels. In spring their small yellow eggs are laid among underwater plants and left to hatch by themselves.
Some fishermen dislike barracuda because they steal bait from their lines. If caught on a line, they will leap into the air until they break the line. Other fishermen on the Pacific Coast and Florida consider it good sport to fish for the smaller ones in those areas, just for the fun of catching them. Several species are good to eat, although the meat spoils quickly, but some are also poisonous.
The Lord God did not create these fish to be vicious, but when Adam and Eve foolishly brought sin into the world it affected the life of every living thing. Happily, after those who love the Lord Jesus have been called to heaven, and judgment is pronounced on those who have refused Him, there will be a time when all creatures will live together in peace.
How nice it will be for those in heaven to look down and see a world at peace. We hope you will be among those happy ones.
JULY 24, 1994
ML-07/24/1994