Fin's Fish Guide
The Garfish (Arrhamphus sclerolepis) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Hemiramphidae that grows up to 36 cm.
Description
The snubnose garfish is a halfbeak (Hemiramphidae) from the waters around Australia and New Guinea. Unlike most halfbeaks it has a short, blunt lower jaw instead of a long beak. The body is slender, silvery and torpedo-shaped. It is a coastal species that also enters fresh water and often occurs in brackish estuaries and the lower reaches of rivers. At the surface it feeds on algae, plant matter and small invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Garfish?
The Garfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Short, blunt lower jaw instead of the long beak of other halfbeaks; surface fish.
Where does the Garfish live?
The Garfish lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. Around Australia and New Guinea; coastal waters and estuaries.
How big does the Garfish get?
The Garfish grows to a maximum of about 36 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Garfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Garfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Garfish edible?
Yes, the Garfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Hemiramphidae
Want the complete picture on the Garfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Garfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.