Fin's Fish Guide
The Mirrorwing flyingfish (Cheilopogon katoptron) is a saltwater fish of the family Exocoetidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The Mirrorwing flyingfish is a flyingfish (Exocoetidae) from the sunlit surface water of the open sea around Australia and the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a streamlined, silver-blue body with greatly enlarged, wing-like pectoral fins with which, after a sprint, it glides through the air over tens of metres to evade predators. As a social fish it snaps at plankton and small crustaceans in the surface layer. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mirrorwing flyingfish?
The Mirrorwing flyingfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly blue.
Where does the Mirrorwing flyingfish live?
The Mirrorwing flyingfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Asia: Australia, Indonesia, Philippines, Viet Nam, Thailand
How big does the Mirrorwing flyingfish get?
The Mirrorwing flyingfish grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Mirrorwing flyingfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Mirrorwing 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 Mirrorwing flyingfish edible?
Yes, the Mirrorwing flyingfish is commonly 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 Mirrorwing flyingfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mirrorwing flyingfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.