Tylosurus acus, commonly known as the Needlefish, is a species of ray-finned fish belonging to the family Belonidae. This slender, elongated fish is a distinctive sight in many marine environments.
Description & Characteristics
The Tylosurus acus is characterized by its long, slender body, resembling a needle, hence its common name. It can reach a maximum size of 153.0 cm, making it one of the larger members of its family. The fish has a pointed snout with a small mouth and sharp teeth. Its back is typically olive-green to blue-green in color, while its underside is silvery. The Tylosurus acus has a dorsal fin positioned far back on its body, followed by a long, low anal fin.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Tylosurus acus is a marine fish found in warm temperate and tropical waters worldwide. It is a pelagic fish, meaning it inhabits the open ocean, and often occurs in surface waters. The species is typically found in coastal waters, estuaries, and bays. The Tylosurus acus is a common sight in the epipelagic zone, the uppermost layer of the ocean, where sunlight penetrates.
Taxonomy
Tylosurus acus is a member of the Class Teleostei, which encompasses the vast majority of bony fishes. This class belongs to the Order Beloniformes, an order of diverse fish known for their elongated bodies and often needle-like snouts. The Tylosurus acus, along with other needlefish species, are part of the Family Belonidae, a family characterized by their elongated bodies, pointed snouts, and sharp teeth.
Feeding
Tylosurus acus is a predatory fish, feeding primarily on small fish and crustaceans. It uses its sharp teeth and long, narrow snout to capture prey. Its feeding habits make it an important component of the marine food web.
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