Fin's Fish Guide
The Eigenmann's needlefish (Potamorrhaphis eigenmanni) is a freshwater fish of the family Belonidae that grows up to 23 cm.
Description
Eigenmann's needlefish is a freshwater needlefish from the Amazon basin in South America. The species grows to about 23 cm and has a very slender, elongate, greenish body with long, thin, finely toothed jaws. It swims just below the surface of calm streams and flooded forests and darts at lightning speed at insects and small fish. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Eigenmann's needlefish?
The Eigenmann's needlefish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly green and shows a plain pattern. Long thin toothed jaws; surface hunter in flooded forests
Where does the Eigenmann's needlefish live?
The Eigenmann's needlefish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Amazon basin
How big does the Eigenmann's needlefish get?
The Eigenmann's needlefish grows to a maximum of about 23 cm.
Is the Eigenmann's needlefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Eigenmann's needlefish 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.
Is the Eigenmann's needlefish edible?
The Eigenmann's needlefish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Potamorrhaphis
More from the family Belonidae
Want the complete picture on the Eigenmann's needlefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Eigenmann's needlefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.