Taxonomy of Finfish (1+2)

3.3.4.3 Hemiramphidae (Halfbeaks)

• Elongate fishes with a prolonged lower jaw (except Oxyporhampus) and a short triangular upper jaw.
• Dorsal and anal fins posterior in position; pelvic fins in abdominal position.
• Lateral line running down from pectoral fin origin and then backward along ventral margin of body.

Eg. Hemiramphus fur

Similar Families

Belonidae (needle fishes) - Both upper and lower jaws elongated and armed with needle sharp teeth.

Exocoetidae (flying fishes) - Lack the prolonged lower jaw characteristic of most half beaks; pectoral fins or both pectoral and pelvic fins enlarged and used for aerial gliding.