Fin's Fish Guide
The Whitetip flyingfish (Cheilopogon xenopterus) is a saltwater fish of the family Exocoetidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The whitetip flyingfish is a flyingfish (Exocoetidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species has a torpedo-shaped, silvery body and greatly enlarged pectoral fins that act as wings. When threatened it shoots out of the water and glides considerable distances above the surface to escape predators. It lives epipelagically in oceanic waters and feeds on small zooplankton. It is an important prey fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Whitetip flyingfish?
The Whitetip flyingfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Enlarged pectoral fins as wings; glides above the water to escape predators.
Where does the Whitetip flyingfish live?
The Whitetip flyingfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Eastern Pacific; epipelagic in oceanic waters.
How big does the Whitetip flyingfish get?
The Whitetip flyingfish grows to a maximum of about 18 cm. On average the species is around 13 cm.
Is the Whitetip flyingfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Whitetip flyingfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Whitetip flyingfish edible?
The Whitetip flyingfish is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Whitetip flyingfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Whitetip flyingfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Whitetip flyingfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Whitetip flyingfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.