The Blacksail flyingfish (Cypselurus simus) is a saltwater fish of the family Exocoetidae that grows up to 26 cm.
Oceania: Easter I., Cook Is., Tahiti, Marquesas Is., Hong Kong, Johnston I. and others
Description
The blacksail 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 bearing a dark blotch and an uneven tail. To escape predators it shoots from the water and glides long distances 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 Blacksail flyingfish?
The Blacksail flyingfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly blue.
Where does the Blacksail flyingfish live?
The Blacksail flyingfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Oceania: Easter I., Cook Is., Tahiti, Marquesas Is., Hong Kong, Johnston I. and others
How big does the Blacksail flyingfish get?
The Blacksail flyingfish grows to a maximum of about 26 cm.
Is the Blacksail flyingfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Blacksail 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 Blacksail flyingfish edible?
Yes, the Blacksail flyingfish is commonly eaten.

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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 Blacksail flyingfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blacksail flyingfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.