Fin's Fish Guide
The Driller's long-tom (Strongylura incisa) is a saltwater fish of the family Belonidae that grows up to 100 cm.
Description
The reef needlefish is a large needlefish (Belonidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species reaches about one metre and has an extremely elongate, silvery body with long, thin, sharply toothed beak-like jaws. It stays just below the surface over both lagoon and seaward reefs and hunts small fishes at high speed. Reproduction is oviparous; the eggs bear adhesive tendrils with which they attach to objects in the water. The species is regularly eaten.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Driller's long-tom?
The Driller's long-tom has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Long, tooth-studded beak-like jaws; the eggs attach to objects with sticky threads.
Where does the Driller's long-tom live?
The Driller's long-tom lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific, over lagoon and seaward reefs.
How big does the Driller's long-tom get?
The Driller's long-tom grows to a maximum of about 100 cm. On average the species is around 60 cm.
Is the Driller's long-tom dangerous to humans?
No, the Driller's long-tom is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Driller's long-tom edible?
Yes, the Driller's long-tom is commonly eaten.
More photos
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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 Driller's long-tom?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Driller's long-tom is one of 12,519 species in the app.