Fin's Fish Guide
The Bearhead flyingfish (Cheilopogon arcticeps) is a saltwater fish of the family Exocoetidae that grows up to 21 cm.
Description
The bearhead flyingfish is a flyingfish from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 21 cm and has a streamlined, blue-silver body with greatly enlarged, wing-like pectoral fins and a blunt head. When threatened it shoots out of the water and glides tens of metres over the surface to escape predators. It schools at the surface of open water and feeds on small zooplankton. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bearhead flyingfish?
The Bearhead flyingfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Enlarged wing-like pectoral fins; glides over the water surface
Where does the Bearhead flyingfish live?
The Bearhead flyingfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Indo-Pacific
How big does the Bearhead flyingfish get?
The Bearhead flyingfish grows to a maximum of about 21 cm.
Is the Bearhead flyingfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Bearhead 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.
Is the Bearhead flyingfish edible?
The Bearhead flyingfish is rarely eaten.
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 Bearhead flyingfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bearhead flyingfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.