Fin's Fish Guide
The Beaked salmon (Gonorynchus gonorynchus) is a saltwater fish of the family Gonorynchidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Indo-Pacific and around southern Africa; sandy bottoms along the coast.
Description
The beaked sandfish is a remarkable fish of the family Gonorynchidae from the Indo-Pacific and the waters around southern Africa. The species has a very elongate, slender, streamlined body with a pointed, beak-like snout and a small, inferior mouth. It inhabits sandy bottoms along the shore to about 200 m deep. It is a nocturnal species that buries in sand or mud by day. On the bottom it feeds on small invertebrates that it sucks from the sediment. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Beaked salmon?
The Beaked salmon has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Elongate body with a beak-like snout; buries itself in sand during the day.
Where does the Beaked salmon live?
The Beaked salmon lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Indo-Pacific and around southern Africa; sandy bottoms along the coast.
How big does the Beaked salmon get?
The Beaked salmon grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 55 cm.
Is the Beaked salmon dangerous to humans?
No, the Beaked salmon is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Beaked salmon edible?
The Beaked salmon is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Gonorynchus
More from the family Gonorynchidae
Want the complete picture on the Beaked salmon?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Beaked salmon is one of 12,519 species in the app.