Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Characiformes
- Family
- Belonidae
- Genus
- Albennes
- Species
- hians
Habitat
Flat needlefish inhabit open pelagic waters of tropical and subtropical oceans, often near the surface or around reefs and islands. They prefer warm waters above 20°C and are commonly found in the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans, avoiding deep or cold environments.
Diet
Flat needlefish primarily feed on smaller fish such as anchovies and sardines, as well as squid and shrimp. They are ambush predators that hunt in schools during dawn and dusk, using their speed and sharp teeth to catch prey near the surface.
Behavior
Flat needlefish are highly schooling fish that form large groups for protection and hunting, often leaping out of the water when startled. They are primarily active during low-light periods like dawn and dusk, exhibiting fast, erratic swimming patterns. These fish are territorial around feeding areas but migrate seasonally to follow prey.
Conservation Status
Listed as Least Concern by IUCN.