The Red Sea Houndfish (Tylosurus choram) is a species of needlefish belonging to the Belonidae family. Its elongated body and sharp beak are characteristic features, making it a distinctive inhabitant of tropical and subtropical marine environments. This fish is known for its rapid swimming abilities, using its powerful tail to propel itself through the water in pursuit of its prey.
Description and Characteristics
The Red Sea Houndfish is a slender fish with a long, cylindrical body. Its most striking feature is its elongated, pointed snout, resembling a needle. The mouth is large and equipped with sharp, pointed teeth. The body is covered in small, overlapping scales, and the dorsal fin is positioned far back on the body, while the anal fin is located towards the tail. The Red Sea Houndfish typically reaches a maximum size of 120.0 cm. Its color is silvery-grey with a darker back and a lighter underside.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Red Sea Houndfish (Tylosurus choram) is primarily found in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. Its distribution spans from the Red Sea and the east coast of Africa to the western Pacific Ocean. This species prefers coastal areas with clear, shallow water and abundant coral reefs. These habitats provide ample food and protection for this agile predator. The Red Sea Houndfish is often observed in the neritic zone, which encompasses the waters above the continental shelf, as well as in the epipelagic zone, the upper layer of the open ocean.
Taxonomy
The Red Sea Houndfish (Tylosurus choram) belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Beloniformes, and Family: Belonidae. This family, known as the needlefishes, comprises over 40 species that share similar body shapes and adaptations for their hunting strategy. They are characterized by their elongated bodies, sharp beaks, and powerful tails, which allow them to dart through the water with great speed.
Feeding
The Red Sea Houndfish (Tylosurus choram) is a carnivorous fish that feeds primarily on smaller fishes. It uses its sharp beak to spear its prey, often striking with surprising speed and accuracy. The Red Sea Houndfish is known to feed on a variety of small fishes, including anchovies, sardines, and other species that inhabit the same waters.
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