Fin's Fish Guide
The Japanese halfbeak (Hyporhamphus sajori) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Hemiramphidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Northwest Pacific (Japan, Korea and China), in surface water of the coast, bays and estuaries; tolerates brackish water.
Description
The Japanese halfbeak is a slender, silvery surface fish of the family Hemiramphidae (halfbeaks) reaching about 40 cm. Characteristic is the unequal jaw: the upper jaw is short and triangular, while the lower jaw extends far as a long, needle-like beak with a red or orange tip. A fine band runs along the silver flank. The species forms schools in surface water of coast, bays and estuaries of the northwest Pacific and tolerates brackish water. As an omnivore it eats plankton, small crustaceans and drifting algae. In Japan and neighbouring countries it is a valued table fish, especially raw as sashimi, and is targeted by fisheries.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Japanese halfbeak?
The Japanese halfbeak has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Slender silvery little surface fish with a short upper jaw and a long, needle-shaped lower jaw with a red tip.
Where does the Japanese halfbeak live?
The Japanese halfbeak lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. Northwest Pacific (Japan, Korea and China), in surface water of the coast, bays and estuaries; tolerates brackish water.
How big does the Japanese halfbeak get?
The Japanese halfbeak grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Japanese halfbeak dangerous to humans?
No, the Japanese halfbeak is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Japanese halfbeak edible?
Yes, the Japanese halfbeak is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
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Appearance
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Status & sources
Same genus Hyporhamphus
More from the family Hemiramphidae
Want the complete picture on the Japanese halfbeak?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Japanese halfbeak is one of 12,519 species in the app.