halfbeaks

Halfbeaks are a family of small, ray-finned fish belonging to the order Beloniformes. They are characterized by their elongated, slender bodies and their distinctive jaw structure, which gives them their common name. In most halfbeak species, the lower jaw is significantly longer than the upper jaw, giving the appearance of being "half a beak." This specialized jaw is used for catching small prey at the surface of the water.

There are several genera and numerous species within the family Hemiramphidae, found in tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide. They are typically pelagic fish, meaning they inhabit the open sea, often congregating in schools. Some species are found in freshwater or brackish environments, particularly in estuaries and river mouths.

Halfbeaks are generally surface feeders, preying on plankton, small crustaceans, and insects that fall onto the water. Their elongated shape and ability to leap out of the water are adaptations that help them evade predators such as larger fish and seabirds. Reproduction in halfbeaks varies by species, with some laying eggs and others giving birth to live young. They are not a commercially important food fish in most regions, though they can be used as bait.