Fin's Fish Guide
The Tapertail ribbonfish (Trachipterus fukuzakii) is a saltwater fish of the family Trachipteridae that grows up to 143 cm.
North America: Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala and others
Description
Fukuzaki's ribbonfish is a deep-sea ribbonfish (Trachipteridae) from the open water of the Pacific. The species grows to about 1.5 metres and has an extremely long, strongly flattened, silvery, ribbon-shaped body with a red dorsal fin running the whole length of the back and a small, upward-pointing tail. As a slow dweller of the twilight zone it hovers vertically in the water and snaps at squid, small fish and crustaceans. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tapertail ribbonfish?
The Tapertail ribbonfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Tapertail ribbonfish live?
The Tapertail ribbonfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. North America: Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala and others
How big does the Tapertail ribbonfish get?
The Tapertail ribbonfish grows to a maximum of about 143 cm.
Is the Tapertail ribbonfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Tapertail ribbonfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Trachipterus
More from the family Trachipteridae
Want the complete picture on the Tapertail ribbonfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tapertail ribbonfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.