The Atlantic needlefish (Scomberesox saurus) is a saltwater fish of the family Scomberesocidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
The Atlantic saury is a slender, streamlined schooling fish of the family Scomberesocidae reaching about 50 cm. The elongate body is blue-green on the back and silvery on the flanks, with thin, beak-like jaws and a row of small finlets before the forked tail, much like mackerels. The saury lives pelagically in open water of the northern Atlantic, the North Sea and the Mediterranean and forms large schools that sometimes come close inshore. It feeds on zooplankton, fish larvae and small fish. When threatened the species often leaps out of the water. It is highly migratory and is fished only on a modest scale.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Atlantic needlefish?
The Atlantic needlefish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Atlantic needlefish live?
The Atlantic needlefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water.
How big does the Atlantic needlefish get?
The Atlantic needlefish grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 32 cm.
Is the Atlantic needlefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Atlantic needlefish is harmless to humans.
Is the Atlantic needlefish edible?
The Atlantic needlefish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Scomberesox
More from the family Scomberesocidae
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