Fin's Fish Guide
The Beautyfin flyingfish (Cypselurus callopterus) is a saltwater fish of the family Exocoetidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The beautyfin flyingfish is a flyingfish (Exocoetidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species has a torpedo-shaped, silvery body and greatly enlarged, spotted pectoral fins that act as wings. When threatened it shoots out of the water and glides considerable distances above the surface to escape predators. It lives epipelagically in coastal waters and feeds on small zooplankton. It is an important prey fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Beautyfin flyingfish?
The Beautyfin flyingfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Enlarged spotted pectoral fins as wings; glides above the water to escape predators.
Where does the Beautyfin flyingfish live?
The Beautyfin flyingfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Eastern Pacific; epipelagic in coastal waters.
How big does the Beautyfin flyingfish get?
The Beautyfin flyingfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Beautyfin flyingfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Beautyfin flyingfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Beautyfin flyingfish edible?
The Beautyfin 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 Cypselurus
More from the family Exocoetidae
Want the complete picture on the Beautyfin flyingfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Beautyfin flyingfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.