Fin's Fish Guide
The Flying halfbeak (Euleptorhamphus velox) is a saltwater fish of the family Hemiramphidae that grows up to 61 cm.
Description
The flying halfbeak is a remarkable halfbeak from tropical and subtropical seas worldwide. The species grows to about 61 cm and has an extremely slender, ribbon-like, silvery body with an elongate needle-shaped lower jaw and enlarged pectoral fins. With those pectoral fins it can, like flyingfishes, shoot out of the water and glide short distances over the surface to escape predators. It schools at the surface of open water and feeds on small zooplankton. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Flying halfbeak?
The Flying halfbeak has a snake-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Ribbon-shaped body with a needle-like beak and enlarged pectoral fins; can glide over the water
Where does the Flying halfbeak live?
The Flying halfbeak lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Worldwide (tropical/subtropical)
How big does the Flying halfbeak get?
The Flying halfbeak grows to a maximum of about 61 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Flying halfbeak dangerous to humans?
No, the Flying halfbeak 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 Flying halfbeak edible?
The Flying 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 Euleptorhamphus
More from the family Hemiramphidae
Want the complete picture on the Flying halfbeak?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Flying halfbeak is one of 12,519 species in the app.