Flying Gurnard

Flying Gurnard

Dactylopterus volitans

Least Concern
Sign in to log this

DESCRIPTION

The Flying Gurnard (Dactylopterus volitans), is a bottom-dwelling fish recognized by its large, wing-like pectoral fins, which are used for both 'walking' along the seabed and as a defense mechanism when spread to display bright blue tips. This carnivorous species primarily feeds on benthic crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish, which it uncovers by digging in the sediment. Found in tropical to warm temperate waters of the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, it can reach up to 50 cm in length.

Max Length 50 cm
Max Weight 1.8 kg
Lifespan Up to 5 years
Habitat Seabed, coastal zone, open water, and coral reef
Depth Range 1 - 100 m
Diet Carnivore
Activity Variable
Social Behavior Solitary

Destinations to spot Flying Gurnard

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely
Range

Where Flying Gurnard has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Flying Gurnard

Where can you see the Flying Gurnard?

The Flying Gurnard can be seen at 5 dive destinations in Spain, Bahamas, and Belize. The best spots include Balearic Islands (Spain), Canary Islands (Spain), Great Blue Hole (Belize), Long Island (Bahamas), and Nassau (Bahamas).

Where can you see the Flying Gurnard in Spain?

In Spain, you can see the Flying Gurnard at Balearic Islands and Canary Islands.

Where can you see the Flying Gurnard in Bahamas?

In Bahamas, you can see the Flying Gurnard at Long Island and Nassau.

Where can you see the Flying Gurnard in Belize?

In Belize, you can see the Flying Gurnard at Great Blue Hole.

How big does the Flying Gurnard get?

The Flying Gurnard can reach up to 50 cm in length and 1.8 kg in weight.

What habitat does the Flying Gurnard live in?

The Flying Gurnard is found in these habitats: seabed, coastal zone, open water, and coral reef.

How deep does the Flying Gurnard live?

The Flying Gurnard lives between 1 and 100 m deep.

What does the Flying Gurnard eat?

Feeds on other animals, from fish to crustaceans or molluscs depending on the species.

When is the Flying Gurnard most active?

Its rhythm shifts with the season, the tide or the region, so the same species may be active by day in one place and by night in another.

Does the Flying Gurnard live in groups?

No. The Flying Gurnard is mostly solitary and is usually seen on its own.

How long does the Flying Gurnard live?

The Flying Gurnard lives up to 5 years.

What is the conservation status of the Flying Gurnard?

The Flying Gurnard is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Flying Gurnard. Spotted something that looks off?

Tell us