Fin's Fish Guide
The Stained-wing flyingfish (Cheilopogon spilonotopterus) is a saltwater fish of the family Exocoetidae that grows up to 38 cm.
Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Juan Fernández, Desventuradas Is, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Colombia and others
Description
The Stained-wing 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 and an uneven tail. To escape predators it shoots from the water and glides tens of metres 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 Stained-wing flyingfish?
The Stained-wing flyingfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly blue.
Where does the Stained-wing flyingfish live?
The Stained-wing flyingfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Juan Fernández, Desventuradas Is, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Colombia and others
How big does the Stained-wing flyingfish get?
The Stained-wing flyingfish grows to a maximum of about 38 cm.
Is the Stained-wing flyingfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Stained-wing 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 Stained-wing flyingfish edible?
Yes, the Stained-wing flyingfish is commonly eaten.
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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 Stained-wing flyingfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Stained-wing flyingfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.