Fin's Fish Guide
The Redtip halfbeak (Hyporhamphus xanthopterus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Hemiramphidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The Redtip halfbeak is a halfbeak (Hemiramphidae) from shallow coastal and estuarine water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a slender, silvery, torpedo-shaped body with a strongly extended lower jaw forming a needle-like beak, while the upper jaw stays short. As a schooling surface fish it swims just below the waterline and snaps at drifting seagrass, small zooplankton and insects. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Redtip halfbeak?
The Redtip halfbeak has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Redtip halfbeak live?
The Redtip halfbeak lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. Asia: India, Andaman Is.
How big does the Redtip halfbeak get?
The Redtip halfbeak grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Redtip halfbeak dangerous to humans?
No, the Redtip halfbeak 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.
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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 Redtip halfbeak?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Redtip halfbeak is one of 12,519 species in the app.