Houndfish

Houndfish
Name: Houndfish
Scientific Name: Tylosurus crocodilus
Family: Needlefishes
Taxonomic: Belonidae
ID Group: Silvery Fishes
Size: 2 - 3.5 ft.
Depth Range: Shorelines, Tidal pools (0 – 2 ft.)
Sightings: Seen sometimes

The Houndfish has a long, slender, silvery body and a long, pointed beak. Its back is bluish-green, fading into silver on the sides and belly, and it has a distinct black lateral keel, a narrow ridge on each side of the tail base.

The Houndfish, also known as the Crocodile Needlefish, is often found drifting near the surface over shallow areas. It uses its long, pointed jaws to hunt smaller marine life and can leap out of the water when startled or in pursuit of prey. The Houndfish is shy and generally solitary, but can also be seen in small groups.