Atlantic Flyingfish

Cypselurus melanurus

Flyingfishes make long, flying leaps out of the water, especially when they are chased by hungry predators. These leaps are a defensive tactic -- predators can't see them once they are in the air. Their "wings" are in fact pectoral fins that have evolved to become greatly enlarged. Atlantic Flyingfish are elongate, surface-dwelling fish and their lateral line is low on the body. They are greenish or blue above and pale below. They have a single dorsal fin and no fin spines. Their pelvic fins are far back on the body.

Look For : A 4-winged flyingfish with enlarged pectoral and pelvic fins. Pectoral fins have a pale triangle at the base. Dorsal fin transparent. Both lobes of tail fin dark.

Length : 10".

Habitat : Ocean waters near surface.

Range : Atlantic Ocean from Massachusetts southward, including Gulf of Mexico.