Fin's Fish Guide
The Asian freshwater needlefish (Xenentodon canciloides) is a freshwater fish of the family Belonidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The Asian freshwater needlefish is a slender needlefish from fresh and brackish water of Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a very elongate, silvery body with long, sharply toothed jaws forming a needle-like beak. As a surface hunter it swims just below the water surface and seizes small fish and insects. The fish is largely harmless to humans and appears in the aquarium hobby. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Asian freshwater needlefish?
The Asian freshwater needlefish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Elongate body with a needle-shaped toothed beak; surface hunter
Where does the Asian freshwater needlefish live?
The Asian freshwater needlefish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Southeast Asia
How big does the Asian freshwater needlefish get?
The Asian freshwater needlefish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Asian freshwater needlefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Asian freshwater needlefish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Asian freshwater needlefish edible?
The Asian freshwater needlefish is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Asian freshwater needlefish?
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Xenentodon
More from the family Belonidae
Want the complete picture on the Asian freshwater needlefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Asian freshwater needlefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.