Fin's Fish Guide
The Backspot flyingfish (Cheilopogon dorsomacula) is a saltwater fish of the family Exocoetidae that grows up to 23 cm.
Description
The Backspot flyingfish is a flyingfish (Exocoetidae) from the open surface water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a slender, streamlined, blue-silver body with greatly enlarged, wing-like pectoral fins and an uneven tail. To escape predators it shoots from the water and glides tens of metres through the air. As a schooling fish it snaps at small zooplankton. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Backspot flyingfish?
The Backspot flyingfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly blue.
Where does the Backspot flyingfish live?
The Backspot flyingfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. South America: Ecuador, Galapagos Is., Fiji, New Caledonia, Nicaragua
How big does the Backspot flyingfish get?
The Backspot flyingfish grows to a maximum of about 23 cm.
Is the Backspot flyingfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Backspot flyingfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cheilopogon
More from the family Exocoetidae
Want the complete picture on the Backspot flyingfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Backspot flyingfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.