Garfish

Garfish, also known as Needlefish, is a species of ray-finned fish found in both freshwater and saltwater environments. They belong to the family Belonidae and are native to the Atlantic coast of Europe and North Africa. Garfish are characterized by their elongated, pointed snout and their long, slender body, which can range in color from silver to gray with darker stripes.

Garfish are carnivorous fish, feeding on small fish, plankton, and other invertebrates. They are able to swim at high speeds, reaching up to 25 km/h, and are also able to jump out of the water in pursuit of prey. Reaching lengths of up to 75 cm, garfish are considered a popular game fish among anglers. However, they are also known to cause problems for commercial fishing operations, as they can easily scavenge food from fishing nets.

In some cultures, garfish are considered a delicacy and are consumed as a raw dish, often thinly sliced and served as sashimi. However, due to concerns over mercury content, some countries have implemented regulations on the consumption of garfish.

In general, garfish are a somewhat invasive species and can outcompete other fish for food and habitat. As such, garfish are the subject of ongoing research and conservation efforts in some areas. Despite this, garfish remain an interesting and ecologically valuable species, playing an important role in their aquatic ecosystems.