Tylosurus fodiator Jordan & Gilbert, 1882
Mexican needlefish
Tylosurus fodiator
photo by Robertson, R.

Family:  Belonidae (Needlefishes)
Max. size:  134 cm TL (male/unsexed); max.weight: 9,860.0 g
Environment:  pelagic-oceanic; marine; depth range - 0 m
Distribution:  Eastern Central Pacific: Gulf of California to Panama, including Cocos Island.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 0-0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 18-22; Anal spines: 0-0; Anal soft rays: 17-18; Vertebrae: 67-72
Biology:  Generally found in coastal waters, but may also be found offshore (Ref. 9279). Feeds mainly on small fishes (Ref. 9279). Oviparous (Ref. 205). Eggs may be found attached to objects in the water by tendrils on the egg's surface (Ref. 205). Marketed fresh and salted (Ref. 9279).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 21 May 2007 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  traumatogenic


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