Reef Needlefish

Strongylura incisa

Reef Needlefish

A slender silver fish that hangs just below the surface over lagoon and seaward reefs, reaching a metre in length. Its long needle jaws snap sideways to catch smaller fish. The female lays eggs that drift and snag onto floating objects by fine tendrils on their surface.

Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Beloniformes › Belonidae › Strongylura

Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 275981.

FAQ

How deep does the Reef Needlefish live?
The Reef Needlefish (Strongylura incisa) is typically found at 0–3 m.
Is the Reef Needlefish dangerous to divers?
The Reef Needlefish is harmless to divers.
How big does the Reef Needlefish get?
The Reef Needlefish grows to about 1 m.