Fin's Fish Guide
The Fitzroy garpike (Strongylura krefftii) is a brackish-water fish of the family Belonidae that grows up to 85 cm.
Description
The freshwater longtom is a needlefish (Belonidae) from the fresh and brackish waters of Australia and New Guinea. The species grows to about 60 cm and has a very elongate, silvery body with long, thin jaws full of small, sharp teeth that project forward like a beak. It inhabits still and flowing rivers, from the tidal zone to far inland, and also impoundments. It often shelters near overhanging vegetation or submerged roots, from where it hunts small fishes at the surface. When disturbed it can leap from the water and inflict a puncture wound with its pointed beak.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Fitzroy garpike?
The Fitzroy garpike has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Long beak-like jaws full of small teeth; freshwater needlefish that can leap out of the water.
Where does the Fitzroy garpike live?
The Fitzroy garpike lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Australia and New Guinea; fresh and brackish rivers.
How big does the Fitzroy garpike get?
The Fitzroy garpike grows to a maximum of about 85 cm.
Is the Fitzroy garpike dangerous to humans?
The Fitzroy garpike can cause injury; handle it with care. Not venomous, but this needlefish can leap from the water when disturbed and inflict a deep puncture wound with its sharp, pointed beak. Clean the wound, check for embedded fragments and seek medical care if it is deep or becomes infected.
Is the Fitzroy garpike edible?
The Fitzroy garpike is rarely eaten.
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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 Fitzroy garpike?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fitzroy garpike is one of 12,519 species in the app.