Fin's Fish Guide
The Bennett's flyingfish (Cheilopogon pinnatibarbatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Exocoetidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Temperate and subtropical oceans worldwide; near-coastal surface waters.
Description
Bennett's flyingfish is one of the largest flyingfishes of the family Exocoetidae and occurs in temperate and subtropical oceans. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a streamlined, silvery body with greatly enlarged, wing-like pectoral fins and a deeply forked tail with an extended lower lobe. It stays in near-shore waters, often near land or islands in cooler water. By building up speed with a rapidly beating tail it can leap from the water and glide considerable distances above the surface to escape predators. As an omnivore it feeds on zooplankton. It is an important prey for larger predators and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bennett's flyingfish?
The Bennett's flyingfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. One of the largest flying fishes; greatly enlarged pectoral fins for gliding above the water.
Where does the Bennett's flyingfish live?
The Bennett's flyingfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Temperate and subtropical oceans worldwide; near-coastal surface waters.
How big does the Bennett's flyingfish get?
The Bennett's flyingfish grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Bennett's flyingfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Bennett's flyingfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bennett's flyingfish edible?
The Bennett's flyingfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Bennett's flyingfish and live in the same waters.
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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 Bennett's flyingfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bennett's flyingfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.