Fin's Fish Guide
The Cape halfbeak (Hyporhamphus capensis) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Hemiramphidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The Cape halfbeak is a halfbeak (Hemiramphidae) from shallow coastal and estuarine water of coastal and estuarine water of southern Africa. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a slender, silvery, torpedo-shaped body with a strongly extended lower jaw forming a needle-like beak, while the upper jaw stays short. As a schooling surface fish it swims just below the waterline and snaps at drifting seagrass, small zooplankton and insects. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cape halfbeak?
The Cape halfbeak has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Cape halfbeak live?
The Cape halfbeak lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. Africa: Mozambique, South Africa
How big does the Cape halfbeak get?
The Cape halfbeak grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Cape halfbeak dangerous to humans?
No, the Cape halfbeak 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.
Want the complete picture on the Cape halfbeak?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cape halfbeak is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Cape halfbeak?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cape halfbeak is one of 12,519 species in the app.