Fin's Fish Guide
The Atlantic smallwing flyingfish (Oxyporhamphus micropterus) is a saltwater fish of the family Hemiramphidae that grows up to 19 cm.
Worldwide in tropical and subtropical oceans, oceanic near the surface.
Description
The smallwing halfbeak is a slender, oceanic fish of the halfbeak family (Hemiramphidae) living near the surface in the open tropical and subtropical oceans. The species grows to about 18 cm and has a streamlined, silvery body with a blue-green back. Unlike most halfbeaks the adult lacks the elongated lower jaw. It is a true oceanic species, not bound to the coast, and schools to feed on small zooplankton and on fish eggs and larvae. Reproduction is oviparous with planktonic eggs and larvae. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Atlantic smallwing flyingfish?
The Atlantic smallwing flyingfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. The only halfbeak without an elongated lower jaw as an adult; a true open-ocean species that is not tied to the coast.
Where does the Atlantic smallwing flyingfish live?
The Atlantic smallwing flyingfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Worldwide in tropical and subtropical oceans, oceanic near the surface.
How big does the Atlantic smallwing flyingfish get?
The Atlantic smallwing flyingfish grows to a maximum of about 19 cm.
Is the Atlantic smallwing flyingfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Atlantic smallwing flyingfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Atlantic smallwing flyingfish edible?
The Atlantic smallwing flyingfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
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More from the family Hemiramphidae
Want the complete picture on the Atlantic smallwing flyingfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Atlantic smallwing flyingfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.