Easily recognisable by thin, extremely elongated body and long, tooth-filled beak-like mouth. Lower jaw is usually longer than upper jaw. Single, small dorsal and anal fin set very far back on the body, as are the pelvic fins. Underside is pale and back and flanks are blue to green. Tail is forked.
Distribution
Found in the warmer water around the south and west of the British Isles.
Feeds On
Small fish such as herring, sprats, sandeels and immature fry of larger species.
- Scientific name: Belone belone
- Also known as: Needlefish, Garpike, Sea Pike, Beakfish, Sea Needle, Mackerel Guide, Mackerel Guardian, Greenbone Fish, Long-nose Fish.
- Size: Up to 3ft and 4lbs
- UK minimum size: 38cm/15inches
- UK shore caught record: 3lb 4oz
- IUCN Status
- Global: LC (Least Concern)
- Europe: LC (Least Concern)
