Fin's Fish Guide
The Common halfbeak (Hyporhamphus unifasciatus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Hemiramphidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Western Atlantic from the USA to Brazil, in surface water of the coast, bays and estuaries; tolerates brackish water.
Description
The common halfbeak is a slender, silvery surface fish of the family Hemiramphidae (halfbeaks) reaching about 30 cm. Characteristic is the unequal jaw: the upper jaw is short and triangular, while the lower jaw extends far as a long, needle-like beak with a red or orange tip. A fine band runs along the silver flank. The species forms schools in surface water of coast, bays and estuaries along the western Atlantic coast and tolerates brackish water. As an omnivore it eats drifting algae and seagrass, supplemented with zooplankton and small crustaceans. Through its great numbers it is an important prey fish for predators and seabirds and a much-used bait fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Common halfbeak?
The Common halfbeak has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Slender silvery little surface fish with a short upper jaw and a long, needle-shaped lower jaw with a red tip. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with caution or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Common halfbeak live?
The Common halfbeak lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. Western Atlantic from the USA to Brazil, in surface water of the coast, bays and estuaries; tolerates brackish water.
How big does the Common halfbeak get?
The Common halfbeak grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Common halfbeak dangerous to humans?
No, the Common halfbeak is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Common halfbeak edible?
The Common halfbeak is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Common halfbeak?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Common 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 Common halfbeak?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Common halfbeak is one of 12,519 species in the app.