cornetfishes

Cornetfishes are a family of marine ray-finned fish belonging to the genus Fistularia. They are characterized by their elongated, slender bodies, which can reach lengths of up to two meters. A distinctive feature is their long, tubular snout, ending in a small mouth armed with numerous tiny teeth. Their dorsal and anal fins are located far back on the body, and their caudal fin typically has two elongated, thread-like filaments extending from its center.

These fish are found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide, inhabiting coral reefs, seagrass beds, and sandy or muddy bottoms. They are often observed swimming slowly near the substrate, sometimes hovering vertically. Cornetfishes are predatory, feeding on small fish, crustaceans, and other invertebrates, which they ambush by rapidly extending their jaws. Their coloration varies, often providing camouflage against their surroundings, with common patterns including brown, green, or reddish hues, sometimes with stripes or spots.

Reproduction involves external fertilization, with females releasing eggs and males releasing sperm into the water column. The larvae are planktonic and drift with ocean currents before settling into their adult habitats. While not typically targeted by commercial fisheries, cornetfishes are sometimes caught as bycatch. Some species are also kept in large public aquariums due to their unique appearance. Despite their size, they are generally considered harmless to humans.