Fin's Fish Guide
The Bleeker's flyingfish (Cypselurus oligolepis) is a saltwater fish of the family Exocoetidae that grows up to 28 cm.
Description
Bleeker's flyingfish is a flyingfish from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 28 cm and has a streamlined, blue-silver body with large scales and greatly enlarged, wing-like pectoral and pelvic fins. 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 Bleeker's flyingfish?
The Bleeker's flyingfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Enlarged wing-like pectoral and pelvic fins; glides over the water surface
Where does the Bleeker's flyingfish live?
The Bleeker's flyingfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Indo-Pacific
How big does the Bleeker's flyingfish get?
The Bleeker's flyingfish grows to a maximum of about 28 cm.
Is the Bleeker's flyingfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Bleeker's 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 Bleeker's flyingfish edible?
The Bleeker's flyingfish is rarely 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 Bleeker's flyingfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bleeker's flyingfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.