Ranging up to 2 m (6.6 ft) in length, cornetfishes are as thin and elongated as eels, but are distinguished by very long snouts, distinct dorsal and anal fins, and forked caudal fins whose center rays form a lengthy filament. The lateral line is well-developed and extends onto the caudal filament. They generally live in coastal waters or on coral reefs, where they feed on small fishes, crustaceans, and other invertebrates. Currently, four recognized species are placed in this genus: Fistularia commersonii Rüppell, 1838 (blue-spotted or smooth cornetfish) Fistularia corneta C. H. Gilbert & Starks, 1904 (Pacific cornetfish) Fistularia petimba Lacépède, 1803 (red cornetfish) Fistularia tabacaria Linnaeus, 1758 (cornetfish or blue-spotted cornetfish)
