Fin's Fish Guide
The Estuarine halfbeak (Zenarchopterus dispar) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Zenarchopteridae that grows up to 19 cm.
Description
The feathered river garfish is a halfbeak (Zenarchopteridae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has a slender body with a strongly elongate, beak-like lower jaw and a short upper jaw. It lives close beneath the surface in shallow water around mangroves in sheltered bays and estuaries. At the surface it snaps small insects and small zooplankton. Unlike its livebearing relatives it has internal fertilisation but lays eggs. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Estuarine halfbeak?
The Estuarine halfbeak has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Beak-like lower jaw; internal fertilisation but OVIPAROUS (unlike its live-bearing relatives).
Where does the Estuarine halfbeak live?
The Estuarine halfbeak lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; shallow water around mangroves.
How big does the Estuarine halfbeak get?
The Estuarine halfbeak grows to a maximum of about 19 cm.
Is the Estuarine halfbeak dangerous to humans?
No, the Estuarine halfbeak is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Estuarine halfbeak edible?
The Estuarine halfbeak is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Zenarchopterus
More from the family Zenarchopteridae
Want the complete picture on the Estuarine halfbeak?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Estuarine halfbeak is one of 12,519 species in the app.