Fin's Fish Guide
The Freshwater needlefish (Potamorrhaphis guianensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Belonidae that grows up to 29 cm.
Tropical South America, at the surface of swamps, slow-flowing creeks and calm parts of rivers.
Description
Potamorrhaphis guianensis is a freshwater needlefish (family Belonidae) of tropical South America. The species reaches about 29 cm and has a very elongate, green-silvery body with a long, thin beak full of small, sharp teeth. It forms schools at the surface and inhabits marshes, slow-moving creeks and the quietest parts of meandering rivers near the banks. It is a voracious predator hunting insects and small fishes at or near the surface. The species is harmless to humans and, because of its small size, of no fishery value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Freshwater needlefish?
The Freshwater needlefish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly green and shows a plain pattern. Slender freshwater needlefish with a long beak; hunts in shoals at the water surface.
Where does the Freshwater needlefish live?
The Freshwater needlefish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Tropical South America, at the surface of swamps, slow-flowing creeks and calm parts of rivers.
How big does the Freshwater needlefish get?
The Freshwater needlefish grows to a maximum of about 29 cm. On average the species is around 12 cm.
Is the Freshwater needlefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Freshwater needlefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Freshwater needlefish edible?
The Freshwater needlefish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Potamorrhaphis
More from the family Belonidae
Want the complete picture on the Freshwater needlefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Freshwater needlefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.