Fin's Fish Guide
The Hair tail (Lepturacanthus savala) is a brackish-water fish of the family Trichiuridae that grows up to 100 cm.
Description
The savalai hairtail is an elongate cutlassfish (Trichiuridae) from coastal and estuarine water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 100 cm and has a strongly elongate, laterally compressed, silvery body that ends in a thin, thread-like tail tip, without a caudal fin, and a mouth full of sharp teeth. As a predator it hunts in schools in shallow coastal water for small fish, shrimp and squid. It is an important food fish. The fish is harmless to humans, though its sharp teeth can cut.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hair tail?
The Hair tail has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Ribbon-shaped silvery body with a filamentous tail and sharp teeth
Where does the Hair tail live?
The Hair tail lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Hair tail get?
The Hair tail grows to a maximum of about 100 cm. On average the species is around 70 cm.
Is the Hair tail dangerous to humans?
No, the Hair tail 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 Hair tail edible?
Yes, the Hair tail 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 Trichiuridae
Want the complete picture on the Hair tail?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hair tail is one of 12,519 species in the app.