Crossword Genius

Best fish, entirely presented without tail (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ideal

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'best' is the definition.
(similar in meaning)

'fish entirely presented without tail' is the wordplay.
I cannot really understand how this works, but
'fish' could be 'ide' (I've seen this in another clue) and 'ide' is found in the answer.
This may be the basis of the clue (or it may be nonsense).

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for ideal that I've seen before include "without a flaw" , "Cutting/stabbing weapons" , "A deli (anag.)" , "fine" , "Just right" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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