Fin's Fish Guide
The Red Sea houndfish (Tylosurus choram) is a saltwater fish of the family Belonidae that grows up to 120 cm.
Description
The Red Sea houndfish is a large needlefish (Belonidae) from coastal and surface water of the Red Sea and western Indian Ocean. The species grows to about 1.2 metres and has a very elongate, silvery, torpedo-shaped body with long, thin jaws set with sharp teeth that form a pointed beak. As a fast surface predator it hunts small fish. When lit up or startled it sometimes leaps from the water at high speed; its hard beak can then inflict a serious puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Red Sea houndfish?
The Red Sea houndfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the Red Sea houndfish live?
The Red Sea houndfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Asia: Oman
How big does the Red Sea houndfish get?
The Red Sea houndfish grows to a maximum of about 120 cm. On average the species is around 70 cm.
Is the Red Sea houndfish dangerous to humans?
The Red Sea houndfish can cause injury; handle it with care. A leaping needlefish can cause a deep puncture wound with its hard, pointed beak. Do not remove a deeply lodged broken beak fragment yourself; control bleeding with pressure around it, cover and seek urgent medical care, especially for a wound to the neck, chest or abdomen. Check tetanus status.
Is the Red Sea houndfish edible?
Yes, the Red Sea houndfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Red Sea houndfish and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Tylosurus
More from the family Belonidae
Want the complete picture on the Red Sea houndfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Red Sea houndfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.