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Dactylopterus volitans
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Atlantic flying gurnard (Dactylopterus volitans) Atlantic flying gurnard Illustrations of twelve Scorpaeniformes fish species, each labeled with common and scientific names, display a variety of body shapes, fin structures, and coloration patterns for comparison.
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Dactylopterus volitans

fish
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Atlantic flying gurnard (Dactylopterus volitans)
Atlantic flying gurnard (Dactylopterus volitans)

The flying gurnard, scientifically known as Dactylopterus volitans, is a marine fish found in warm and tropical seas. These fish are characterized by their elongated bodies and exceptionally large pectoral fins, which are divided into a shorter front section and a larger, wing-like posterior section. These fins can be vibrantly colored, with blue spots seen in the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea species.1

Flying gurnards also have bony plates covering their heads and a unique dorsal fin ray separate from the main fin. They can reach up to 50 cm (20 inches) in length and are bottom-dwellers. Interestingly, they are reported to be capable of gliding short distances over the water's surface using their spread pectoral fins. The term "volador" can also refer to this species.12

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. flying gurnard
  2. volador

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