Spot-tail Needlefish (Strongylura strongylura)

Spot-tail Needlefish (Strongylura strongylura)

A small school of Spot-tail Needlefishes seen at Eagle Point.

Family: Belonidae
Species Name: Strongylura strongylura
Common Name(s): Spot-tail Needlefish, Blackspot Longtom

Presence in Singapore: Native
Habitat: Coastal waters lined with mangrove forests, known to enter freshwater.
Conservation status: Near Threatened (Red Data Book 3), presumably abundant

A fierce-looking fish commonly seen patrolling the edge of mangrove forests along the coast. The Spot-tail Needlefish can be differentiated from its relatives by having a spot at the base of its round, yellow tail. This fish can reach up to lengths of around 40cm. Predatory in nature, its needle-like mouth is lined with sharp teeth, which aids in securing small prey such as other fishes and crustaceans. 

Based on observations, it is known to travel into mangrove swamps and even upstream into freshwater to look for food. However, it seems to prefer waiting by the shoreline during receding tides, which are when most pelagic fishes return out to sea. The lowering water levels also reduce the space given for prey to escape this surface-dwelling predator.

Diseased individuals are noted to display dark patches and dull colouration.

A Spot-tail Needlefish swallowing a shrimp.

References

• Lim, K.K.P. & Low, J.K.Y. 1998. A Guide to Common Marine Fishes of Singapore. Singapore Science Centre, 163 pp. ISBN 981-00-9904-5.
• National Parks Board (NParks). Marine Fishes. Retrieved from https://www.nparks.gov.sg/nature/species-list/marine-fishes.