Fin's Fish Guide
The California needlefish (Strongylura exilis) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Belonidae that grows up to 91 cm.
Description
The Californian needlefish is a slender beaked fish of the family Belonidae from the eastern Pacific. The species has a strongly elongate, silvery-green body with long, needle-like jaws full of sharp teeth and reaches about 91 cm. It is common in coastal and lagoon areas with mangroves and also penetrates fresh water. Adults live in small schools near the surface and hunt small fishes. When disturbed the species can leap from the water. The eggs attach by long filaments to floating material.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the California needlefish?
The California needlefish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Long, needle-shaped jaws full of sharp teeth; can leap out of the water when disturbed.
Where does the California needlefish live?
The California needlefish lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. Eastern Pacific, from California to Peru.
How big does the California needlefish get?
The California needlefish grows to a maximum of about 91 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the California needlefish dangerous to humans?
The California needlefish can cause injury; handle it with care. This fast, toothed beaked fish can leap from the water when disturbed and cause puncture or cut wounds with its sharp snout, especially at night near artificial light. Clean any wound thoroughly and seek medical help for deep injuries.
Is the California needlefish edible?
The California needlefish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Strongylura
More from the family Belonidae
Want the complete picture on the California needlefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the California needlefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.