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.
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.
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hyporhamphus
More from the family Hemiramphidae
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.