Fin's Fish Guide
The Hawaiian flagtail (Kuhlia sandvicensis) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Kuhliidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Oceania: Cook Is., Fiji, Tahiti, Tuamotu Is., French Polynesia, Kiribati and others
Description
The Hawaiian flagtail is a flagtail (Kuhliidae) from coastal and brackish water around the Hawaiian Islands in the central Pacific. The species grows to about 25 cm and has an elongate, bright-silvery body with large eyes and a dark-edged, forked tail. As a nocturnal, schooling fish it lives in tide pools, bays and river mouths and hunts small crustaceans and insects. It is a food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hawaiian flagtail?
The Hawaiian flagtail has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Hawaiian flagtail live?
The Hawaiian flagtail lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Oceania: Cook Is., Fiji, Tahiti, Tuamotu Is., French Polynesia, Kiribati and others
How big does the Hawaiian flagtail get?
The Hawaiian flagtail grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Hawaiian flagtail dangerous to humans?
No, the Hawaiian flagtail 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 Hawaiian flagtail edible?
Yes, the Hawaiian flagtail is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Kuhlia
More from the family Kuhliidae
Want the complete picture on the Hawaiian flagtail?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hawaiian flagtail is one of 12,519 species in the app.