Arrowtooth lizardfish facts for kids

The arrowtooth lizardfish (Synodus doaki) is a type of fish that looks a bit like a lizard. It belongs to a group of fish called the Synodontidae family, which are often known as lizardfish. This fish lives in certain parts of the southwestern Pacific Ocean.

About the Arrowtooth Lizardfish

The arrowtooth lizardfish gets its name from its sharp, pointed teeth, which look a bit like tiny arrows. These fish are usually found living on the ocean floor. They are known for their long, slender bodies.

Where Do They Live?

You can find the arrowtooth lizardfish in specific areas of the southwestern Pacific Ocean. These places include Queensland in Australia, the Coral Sea, New Caledonia, Lord Howe Island, Norfolk Island, and the North Island of New Zealand.

They live in waters that are not too shallow and not too deep. You can find them at depths ranging from about 9 meters (about 30 feet) down to 200 meters (about 650 feet) below the surface.

What Do They Look Like?

The arrowtooth lizardfish is a medium-sized fish. It typically grows to be between 15 and 28 centimeters long. That's about the length of a standard ruler or a little bit longer.

Different Kinds of Lizardfish

For a while, scientists thought that arrowtooth lizardfish found in places like the Hawaiian Islands, Indonesia, and Fiji were all the same species. However, after more study, they discovered that these were actually different types of lizardfish.

Scientists now know that fish from those other areas are distinct species. For example, fish once thought to be Synodus doaki in Hawaii are now called Synodus mundyi. This shows how scientists keep learning more about the amazing variety of life in our oceans!