Fin's Fish Guide
The Flying gurnard (Dactyloptena macracantha) is a saltwater fish of the family Dactylopteridae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The spotwing flying gurnard is a remarkable bottom fish from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 30 cm and has an armoured head and enormously large, fan-shaped pectoral fins that it can spread like 'wings' to appear larger or to 'walk' over the bottom. On the back it bears a conspicuously long, separate spine. As a bottom-dweller it lives on sand and mud bottoms of the continental shelf, between about 45 and 175 metres, and searches for small crustaceans and molluscs. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Flying gurnard?
The Flying gurnard has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Enormous fan-shaped pectoral fins and a long dorsal spine; 'walks' over the bottom
Where does the Flying gurnard live?
The Flying gurnard lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Flying gurnard get?
The Flying gurnard grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Flying gurnard dangerous to humans?
No, the Flying gurnard 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 Flying gurnard edible?
The Flying gurnard is not usually 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 Flying gurnard?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Flying gurnard is one of 12,519 species in the app.