The Halfbeak (Hyporhamphus snyderi) is a saltwater fish of the family Hemiramphidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
Snyder's halfbeak is a halfbeak (Hemiramphidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species has a slender, silvery body with a short upper jaw and a strongly elongated, beak-like lower jaw. It is a schooling coastal species that stays just below the water surface. As an omnivore it feeds on floating plant matter, small invertebrates and insects at the surface. It is a prey fish for larger predators and seabirds. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Halfbeak?
The Halfbeak has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Beak-shaped lower jaw; schooling surface prey fish of coastal waters.
Where does the Halfbeak live?
The Halfbeak lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Eastern Pacific; coastal waters near the surface.
How big does the Halfbeak get?
The Halfbeak grows to a maximum of about 15 cm. On average the species is around 10 cm.
Is the Halfbeak dangerous to humans?
No, the Halfbeak is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Halfbeak edible?
The Halfbeak is rarely eaten.

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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hyporhamphus
More from the family Hemiramphidae

Want the complete picture on the Halfbeak?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Halfbeak is one of 12,519 species in the app.