Fin's Fish Guide
The Sailfin flyingfish (Parexocoetus mento) is a saltwater fish of the family Exocoetidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Asia: Australia, Bahrain, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Fiji, Guam, India and others
Description
The sailfin flyingfish is a flyingfish (Exocoetidae) from warm surface waters of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a slender, blue-silver body with greatly enlarged pectoral fins and a strikingly high dorsal fin. To escape predators it shoots out of the water and glides on its 'wings' over the waves. As a schooling fish of the upper layer it eats zooplankton and small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sailfin flyingfish?
The Sailfin flyingfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly blue.
Where does the Sailfin flyingfish live?
The Sailfin flyingfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Asia: Australia, Bahrain, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Fiji, Guam, India and others
How big does the Sailfin flyingfish get?
The Sailfin flyingfish grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Sailfin flyingfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Sailfin 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 Sailfin flyingfish edible?
Yes, the Sailfin flyingfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Sailfin 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 Parexocoetus
More from the family Exocoetidae
Want the complete picture on the Sailfin flyingfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sailfin flyingfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.