Fin's Fish Guide
The Barred halfbeak (Hemiramphus marginatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Hemiramphidae that grows up to 26 cm.
Description
The yellowtip halfbeak is a halfbeak of the family Hemiramphidae from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 26 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a short upper jaw and a strongly elongated, beak-like lower jaw with a yellowish tip, to which the name refers. It lives in schools just below the surface of coastal and surface waters. As an omnivore it feeds on drifting seagrass, algae, small zooplankton and small invertebrates at the surface. Halfbeaks can 'skip' over the water when disturbed. The species is a local food and bait fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Barred halfbeak?
The Barred halfbeak has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Greatly elongated beak-shaped lower jaw with a yellow tip; schooling surface fish that can skip over the water.
Where does the Barred halfbeak live?
The Barred halfbeak lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Indo-West Pacific; coastal and surface waters.
How big does the Barred halfbeak get?
The Barred halfbeak grows to a maximum of about 26 cm.
Is the Barred halfbeak dangerous to humans?
No, the Barred halfbeak is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Barred halfbeak edible?
Yes, the Barred halfbeak is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hemiramphus
More from the family Hemiramphidae
Want the complete picture on the Barred halfbeak?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Barred halfbeak is one of 12,519 species in the app.