Fin's Fish Guide
The California halfbeak (Hyporhamphus rosae) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Hemiramphidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The California halfbeak is a small surface fish of the halfbeak family (Hemiramphidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a slender, silvery body with the greatly elongated lower jaw characteristic of halfbeaks, while the upper jaw stays short. Adults stay near shore, often in coastal bays at or just below the surface, and form small schools. As an omnivore it feeds on drifting plant matter, small invertebrates and plankton. Owing to limited data the species is assessed as Data Deficient (DD). It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the California halfbeak?
The California halfbeak has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Greatly elongated lower jaw with a short upper jaw; surface schooling fish of coastal bays.
Where does the California halfbeak live?
The California halfbeak lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. Eastern Pacific; coastal bays at or just below the surface.
How big does the California halfbeak get?
The California halfbeak grows to a maximum of about 15 cm. On average the species is around 9 cm.
Is the California halfbeak dangerous to humans?
No, the California halfbeak is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the California halfbeak edible?
The California halfbeak is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hyporhamphus
More from the family Hemiramphidae
Want the complete picture on the California halfbeak?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the California halfbeak is one of 12,519 species in the app.