Fin's Fish Guide
The Brown flying gurnard (Dactyloptena orientalis) is a saltwater fish of the family Dactylopteridae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The Oriental flying gurnard is a remarkable bottom fish (family Dactylopteridae) of the Indo-Pacific. The species reaches about 40 cm and has an armoured head and enormous, fan-like pectoral fins marked with blue spots; when threatened it spreads them to appear larger. It inhabits shallow coastal waters with sandy bottoms and 'walks' over the bottom on the separated front pelvic rays. Its diet consists of small crustaceans, molluscs and small fishes. The species is harmless to humans and of modest commercial value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Brown flying gurnard?
The Brown flying gurnard has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Spreads enormous, fan-shaped, blue-spotted pectoral fins to look larger; 'walks' over the sandy bottom with its pelvic fins.
Where does the Brown flying gurnard live?
The Brown flying gurnard lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific, in shallow coastal waters with a sandy bottom.
How big does the Brown flying gurnard get?
The Brown flying gurnard grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Brown flying gurnard dangerous to humans?
No, the Brown flying gurnard is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Brown flying gurnard edible?
The Brown flying gurnard is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Dactyloptena
More from the family Dactylopteridae
Want the complete picture on the Brown flying gurnard?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Brown flying gurnard is one of 12,519 species in the app.