Species profile
Atlantic Needlefish
Strongylura marina
At a glance
Atlantic Needlefish (Strongylura marina) is an IUCN Least Concern bony-fish species present across the CatchRules coverage area but without species-specific bag, size, or season rules tracked in our regulatory dataset.
Confirmed by 1,263 research-grade iNaturalist observations, with Florida, Texas, and Maryland the top jurisdictions by observation count.
Notable details
- Their bones and flesh are bright green due to a pigment called biliverdin.
- They can leap from the water at night when attracted to lights, occasionally injuring people.
- Reach about 24 inches (60 cm) in length, but the body is extremely slender.
- Surface predators that chase and impale small fish using needle-like jaws.
- They tolerate both saltwater and freshwater, often entering coastal rivers and estuaries.
Where Atlantic Needlefish are seen
Background
Strongylura marina, known commonly as the Atlantic needlefish, is a common demersal needlefish species common in marinas and other areas with minimal current. Its extremely long jaw and body set this fish apart from other predators. Atlantic needlefish are found from Maine to Brazil and have been known to venture into freshwater for short periods.
Background excerpt adapted from Wikipedia's Atlantic Needlefish article (CC BY-SA). Visit Wikipedia for the full entry.
Other bony fish on CatchRules
Photo credit: iNaturalist / Wikipedia. Identification reference only — verify regulations with the issuing wildlife agency before retaining a catch.