Needlefishes
Needlefishes (Belonidae) Overview
Needlefishes have long and slim bodies with pointed, needlelike beaks with sharp teeth. They can be seen just below the surface and feed on small schooling fish, which they swallow whole. They are also able to leap out of the water and are strong swimmers. Juvenile needlefish can easily be mistaken for small twigs floating on the water's surface.
At night they can be attracted by lights. When diving at night in an area where needlefish are common it is therefore recommended to leave the dive lights off until one is fully in the water and submerged. If one gets wounded by a needlefish the wound should be disinfected as small beak pieces in the wound can cause an infection. Large needlefishes can cause serious injuries.
There are at least four needlefish species in Hawaii, which are known as 'aha, meaning “cord.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What do needlefishes look like?
Needlefishes have long, slender bodies and elongated, pointed beaks filled with sharp teeth. Their shape helps them glide swiftly just below the water’s surface.
What do needlefishes eat?
They feed primarily on small schooling fish, which they catch using quick strikes and swallow whole. They are effective predators and fast swimmers.
Are needlefishes dangerous?
Large needlefishes can cause serious injuries if they leap out of the water and strike a person. Their sharp beaks can puncture skin, and wounds should be disinfected to avoid infection from embedded fragments.
Why are dive lights a concern at night?
Needlefishes are attracted to light and may leap toward illuminated areas. Divers are advised to turn off dive lights until they are fully submerged to reduce the risk of injury from startled fish.
What is the Hawaiian name for needlefish?
The Hawaiian name for needlefish is 'aha, which means “cord” - likely a reference to their long, thin appearance. At least four species are found in Hawaiian waters.