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Needlefish: The Strange Fish With a Long, Pointed Nose

Needlefish: The Strange Fish With a Long, Pointed Nose

Written by Scuba.com
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Updated on June 27, 2023
needlefish underwater

The world’s oceans are full of a great many strange species, to be sure, but one strange fish that seems to keep causing trouble simply by virtue of its physiology caught our attention recently: the needlefish.

What is the Needlefish?

The needlefish hails from the Belonidae family of fish, all of which are characterized by a long, pointy nose full of sharp teeth that lends itself to their common name. There are 10 distinct genera within the Belonidae family, spread out amongst nearly every ocean on Earth.

Characteristics

Despite small differences in appearance between different genera, needlefish have slender bodies which can range in length from just over an inch to just over four feet, depending on the species. The dorsal fin is located quite far back on the body, almost perfectly mirroring the anal fin. The beak for which they are renown looks much like a set of needlenose pliers, but only when they are mature; the upper jaw is shorter than the lower jaw for its juvenile years.

needlefish underwater
Image via Shutterstock

Diet

Needlefish are piscivorous fish, meaning that the bulk of their diet is comprised of smaller fish, but some species will also consume krill, cephalopods, and small crustaceans swimming through the water column. Its diet relies heavily on its habitat, ranging from shallow brackish, marine, and freshwaters to the open ocean just beneath the surface. It hunts with its jaws open, and catches its prey with a swift upward motion of the head.

Habitat

Needlefish are predominantly found in warm, tropical, and subtropical coastal waters around the world. They inhabit various habitats, including coral reefs, lagoons, estuaries, and shallow coastal areas. These sleek fish prefer areas with seagrass beds or mangrove forests, where they can find shelter, abundant food sources, and suitable breeding grounds.

Behavior

This far into the description, you’re probably wondering what the aforementioned trouble the needlefish keeps getting into is about, since it seems to be a rather ordinary fish…right?

Although the needlefish has no taste whatsoever for human flesh, this strange fish is a bit flighty (and we mean that in the most literal sense!), resulting in human fatalities and severe wounds. The flight response of the needlefish to obstacles in its way or bright lights at night is to launch out of the water at speeds of up to 38 mph. Because the habitat in which they dwell and their behavior of swimming at the surface or in the shallows often puts them in direct contact with humans, several unsuspecting swimmers and fishermen have been at the receiving end of that pointy beak full of sharp teeth, leaving only some alive to tell the tale.

Life span

The life span of needlefish varies depending on the species and environmental factors. Generally, these fish have a relatively short life span, typically ranging from three to seven years. However, some species have been known to live up to 15 years. Factors such as habitat quality, food availability, predation pressure, and reproductive success can influence their longevity. These slender, elongated fish are known for their swift swimming abilities and needle-like jaws, which they use to snatch prey from the water’s surface. Despite their relatively brief existence, needlefish play a vital role in the marine ecosystem as both predator and prey, contributing to the balance of coastal habitats.

needlefish underwater
Image via Shutterstock

Needlefish Frequently Asked Questions

Are needlefish aggressive?

Needlefish are known to exhibit aggressive behavior in certain situations. While they are generally non-aggressive towards humans, they can become territorial and defensive if provoked or cornered. Additionally, when feeding or during spawning season, needlefish may display aggression towards smaller fish or other potential prey.

Can you eat needle fish?

While needlefish are edible, they are not commonly targeted for human consumption due to their bony structure and relatively low flesh yield. However, in some cultures, particularly in Asia, needlefish are occasionally caught and consumed, often in the form of smoked or grilled dishes. Care should be taken when handling and preparing them to remove the numerous small bones.

Is it safe to swim with needlefish?

Swimming with needlefish can potentially pose some risks. While they generally avoid humans, needlefish have been known to leap out of the water when startled or chased. Their sharp beaks and slender bodies can cause injury if they accidentally collide with swimmers. It is advisable to maintain a safe distance and be cautious when swimming in areas where needlefish are present.

Conclusion

Despite these unfortunate incidents, the needlefish is a lovely species to observe in the water, and of all the strange fish in the sea, is probably the least of its brethren.

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