# Flying fish

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Family of marine fish that can make powerful, self-propelled leaps out of water

For other uses, see [Flying fish (disambiguation)](/source/Flying_fish_(disambiguation)).

Not to be confused with [Raining fish](/source/Raining_fish).

Flying fish Temporal range: Early Eocene to present[1] PreꞒ Ꞓ O S D C P T J K Pg N Sailfin flying-fish, Parexocoetus brachypterus Scientific classification Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Actinopterygii Order: Beloniformes Suborder: Exocoetoidei Superfamily: Exocoetoidea Family: Exocoetidae Risso, 1827[2] Genera See text

The **Exocoetidae** are a [family](/source/Family_(taxonomy)) of [saltwater](/source/Saltwater_fish) [ray-finned fish](/source/Actinopterygii) in the [order](/source/Order_(biology)) [Beloniformes](/source/Beloniformes), known colloquially as **flying fish** or **flying cod**, with about 64 [species](/source/Species) in seven [genera](/source/Genus). While they do not "fly" in the same way a bird does, flying fish can make powerful leaps out of the water where their long, [wing](/source/Wing)-like [paired fins](/source/Paired_fins) act as [aerofoils](/source/Aerofoil) to generate [lift](/source/Lift_(force)) and enable prolonged [gliding](/source/Gliding_flight) for considerable distances above the water surface. The main reason for this behavior is thought to be to escape from underwater predators,[3][4][5] which include [swordfish](/source/Swordfish), [mackerel](/source/Mackerel), [tuna](/source/Tuna), and [marlin](/source/Marlin), among others,[6] though their periods of flight expose them to attack by aerial predators such as [frigatebirds](/source/Frigatebird).

[Barbados](/source/Barbados) is known as "the land of the flying fish" and the fish is one of the national symbols of the country. The French [Exocet](/source/Exocet) [anti-ship missile](/source/Anti-ship_missile) is also named after them, as the missile can be launched from underwater, and take a low, [sea-skimming](/source/Sea-skimming) trajectory before striking the targets.

## Etymology

The term *Exocoetidae* is both the scientific name and the general name in [Latin](/source/Latin) for a flying fish. The suffix *-idae*, common for indicating a family, follows the root of the Latin word *exocoetus*, a transliteration of the [Ancient Greek](/source/Ancient_Greek) name ἐξώκοιτος. This means literally 'sleeping outside', from ἔξω, 'outside', and κοῖτος, 'bed', 'resting place', with the verb root κει-, 'to lie down',[7] so named as flying fish were believed to leave the water to sleep ashore,[8] or due to flying fish flying and thus stranding themselves in boats.

## Taxonomy

The Exocoetidae is divided into four [subfamilies](/source/Subfamily) and seven genera:[2][9][10]

- Subfamily [Exocoetinae](/source/Exocoetinae) ([Risso](/source/Antoine_Risso), 1827) - Genus *[Exocoetus](/source/Exocoetus)* ([Linnaeus](/source/Carl_Linnaeus), [1758](/source/10th_edition_of_Systema_Naturae))

- Subfamily [Fodiatorinae](/source/Fodiatorinae) ([Fowler](/source/Henry_Weed_Fowler), 1925) - Genus *[Fodiator](/source/Fodiator)* ([D.S. Jordan](/source/David_Starr_Jordan) & [Meek](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Seth_Eugen_Meek&action=edit&redlink=1), 1885)

- Subfamily [Parexocoetinae](/source/Parexocoetinae) ([Bruun](/source/Anton_Frederik_Bruun), 1935) - Genus *[Parexocoetus](/source/Parexocoetus)* ([Bleeker](/source/Pieter_Bleeker), 1865)

- Subfamily [Cypsellurinae](/source/Cypsellurinae) ([Hubbs](/source/Carl_Leavitt_Hubbs), 1933) - Genus *[Cheilopogon](/source/Cheilopogon)* ([Lowe](/source/Richard_Thomas_Lowe), 1841) - Genus *[Cypselurus](/source/Cypselurus)* ([Swainson](/source/William_Swainson), 1838) - Genus *[Hirundichthys](/source/Hirundichthys)* ([Breder](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Charles_Marcus_Breder&action=edit&redlink=1), 1928) - Genus *[Prognichthys](/source/Prognichthys)* (Breder, 1928)

The earliest fossil flyingfish are known from the [Early Eocene](/source/Ypresian) of [Monte Bolca](/source/Monte_Bolca), Italy. They include the genus *[Rhamphexocoetus](/source/Rhamphexocoetus)* Bannikov *et al*., 1985, which appears to be [transitional](/source/Transitional_fossil) between [halfbeaks](/source/Halfbeak) and flyingfishes. Also known from the same deposits is ["*Engraulis*" *evolans*](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=%22Engraulis%22_evolans&action=edit&redlink=1) [Agassiz](/source/Louis_Agassiz), 1835, which was previously thought to be an [anchovy](/source/Anchovy), but is now known to represent a juvenile flyingfish.[11][12][13]

## Distribution and description

Flying fish

Flying fish taking off

Flying fish live in all of the [oceans](/source/Oceans), particularly in [tropical](/source/Tropics) and warm [subtropical](/source/Subtropical) waters. They are commonly found in the [epipelagic zone](/source/Epipelagic_zone), the top layer of the ocean to a depth of about 200 m (660 ft).

Numerous morphological features give flying fish the ability to leap above the surface of the ocean. One such feature is fully broadened [neural arches](/source/Neural_arches), which act as insertion sites for [connective tissues](/source/Connective_tissue) and ligaments in a fish's skeleton. Fully broadened neural arches act as more stable and sturdier sites for these connections, creating a strong link between the [vertebral column](/source/Vertebral_column) and [cranium](/source/Cranium).[14] A steady glide will improve their flight duration and allow them to be above water. An unsteady glide will not impact their flight as much but will shorten their flight duration not much more than a steady flight. This also will vary based on their energy consumption.[15] This ultimately allows a rigid and sturdy vertebral column (body) that is beneficial in flight. Having a rigid body during glided flight gives the flying fish [aerodynamic](/source/Aerodynamics) advantages, increasing its speed and improving its aim.[14] Furthermore, flying fish have developed [vertebral columns](/source/Vertebral_columns) and [ossified](/source/Ossification) [caudal](/source/Fish_fin#AnchCaudal) complexes.[16] These features provide the majority of strength to the flying fish, allowing them to physically lift their bodies out of water and glide remarkable distances. These additions also reduce the flexibility of the flying fish, allowing them to perform powerful leaps without weakening midair.[16] At the end of a glide, they fold their [pectoral fins](/source/Fish_fin#AnchPectoral) to re-enter the sea, or drop their tails into the water to push against the water to lift for another glide, possibly changing direction.[17][18] The curved profile of the "wing" is comparable to the aerodynamic shape of a bird wing.[19] The fish is able to increase its time in the air by flying straight into or at an angle to the direction of [updrafts](/source/Updraft) created by a combination of [air](/source/Air_current) and [ocean currents](/source/Ocean_current).[17][18]

Species of genus *[Exocoetus](/source/Exocoetus)* have one pair of fins and streamlined bodies to optimize for speed, while *[Cypselurus](/source/Cypselurus)* spp. have flattened bodies and two pairs of fins, which maximize their time in the air. From 1900 to the 1930s, flying fish were studied as possible models used to develop airplanes.[18]

The Exocoetidae feed mainly on [plankton](/source/Plankton). Predators include [dolphins](/source/Dolphin), [tuna](/source/Tuna), [marlin](/source/Marlin), [birds](/source/Bird), [squid](/source/Squid), and [porpoises](/source/Porpoise).[18]

### Flight measurements

In May 2008, a Japanese television crew ([NHK](/source/NHK)) filmed a flying fish (dubbed "Icarfish") off the coast of [Yakushima Island](/source/Yakushima_Island), Japan. The fish spent 45 seconds in flight.[20] The previous record was 42 seconds.[20]

The flights of flying fish are typically around 50 m (160 ft),[21] though they can use updrafts at the leading edge of waves to cover distances up to 400 m (1,300 ft).[21][22] They can travel at speeds of more than 70 km/h (43 mph).[18] Maximum altitude is 6 m (20 ft) above the surface of the sea.[19] Flying fish often accidentally land on the decks of smaller vessels.[18][23][24]

## Fishery and cuisine

Dried flying fish for sale in [Tokyo](/source/Tokyo)

[Sushi](/source/Sushi) with *[tobiko](/source/Tobiko)*, or flying fish roe

Flying fish are commercially fished for in [Japan](/source/Japan), [Vietnam](/source/Vietnam), and [China](/source/China) by [gillnetting](/source/Gillnetting), and in [Indonesia](/source/Indonesia) and [India](/source/India) by [dipnetting](/source/Hand_net).[18] Often in [Japanese cuisine](/source/Japanese_cuisine), the fish is preserved by drying to be used as [fish stock](/source/Fish_stock_(food)) for [dashi](/source/Dashi) broth. The [roe](/source/Roe) of *[Cheilopogon agoo](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Cheilopogon_agoo&action=edit&redlink=1)*, or Japanese flying fish, is used to make some types of [sushi](/source/Sushi), and is known as *[tobiko](/source/Tobiko)*. It is also a staple in the diet of the [Tao people](/source/Tao_people) of [Orchid Island](/source/Orchid_Island), [Taiwan](/source/Taiwan). Flying fish is part of the national dish of Barbados, *[cou-cou](/source/Cou-cou)* and flying fish. The taste is close to that of a sardine.

Fried flying fish

Flying fish roe is known as "cau-cau" in southern Peru, and is used to make several local dishes.[*[citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed)*]

In the [Solomon Islands](/source/Solomon_Islands), the fish are caught while they are flying, using nets held from [outrigger canoes](/source/Outrigger_canoe). They are attracted to the light of torches. Fishing is done only when no moonlight is available.[*[citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed)*]

## Importance

### Barbados

Flying fish for sale in local fish market of [Saint Martin's Island, Bangladesh](/source/Saint_Martin's_Island_(Bangladesh))

[Barbados](/source/Barbados) is known as "the land of the flying fish", and the fish is one of the national symbols of the country. Once abundant, it [migrated](/source/Fish_migration) between the warm, [coral](/source/Coral)-filled [Atlantic Ocean](/source/Atlantic_Ocean) surrounding the island of Barbados and the plankton-rich outflows of the [Orinoco](/source/Orinoco) River in [Venezuela](/source/Venezuela).[*[citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed)*]

Just after the completion of the [Bridgetown Harbor / Deep Water Harbor](/source/Port_of_Bridgetown) in Bridgetown, Barbados had an increase of ship visits, linking the island to the world. The overall health of the [coral reefs](/source/Coral_reef) surrounding Barbados suffered due to ship-based [pollution](/source/Pollution). Additionally, Barbadian [overfishing](/source/Overfishing) pushed them closer to the Orinoco [delta](/source/River_delta), no longer returning to Barbados in large numbers. Today, the flying fish only [migrate](/source/Fish_migration) as far north as [Tobago](/source/Tobago), around 120 nmi (220 km; 140 mi) southwest of Barbados. Despite the change, flying fish remain a coveted delicacy.[*[citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed)*]

Many aspects of [Barbadian culture](/source/Culture_of_Barbados) center around the flying fish; it is depicted on coins, as sculptures in fountains, in artwork, and as part of the official logo of the Barbados Tourism Authority. Additionally, the [Barbadian coat of arms](/source/Coat_of_arms_of_Barbados) features a [pelican](/source/Pelican) and [dolphinfish](/source/Dolphinfish) on either side of the shield, but the dolphinfish resembles a flying fish. Furthermore, actual artistic renditions and [holograms](/source/Hologram) of the flying fish are also present within the [Barbadian passport](/source/Barbados_passport).[*[citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed)*]

#### Maritime disputes

Further information: [Barbados v. Trinidad and Tobago](/source/Barbados_v._Trinidad_and_Tobago)

Flying fish have also been gaining in popularity in other islands, fueling several maritime disputes. In 2006, the council of the [United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea](/source/United_Nations_Convention_on_the_Law_of_the_Sea)[25] fixed the [maritime boundaries](/source/Maritime_boundary) between [Barbados](/source/Barbados) and [Trinidad and Tobago](/source/Trinidad_and_Tobago) over the flying fish dispute, which gradually raised tensions between the neighbours.[26] The ruling stated both countries must preserve stocks for the future. Barbadian fishers still follow the flying fish southward.

### Indonesia

[Makassar](/source/Makassar_people) fishermen in south [Sulawesi](/source/Sulawesi) have been catching flying fish (*torani*) in special boats called *[patorani](/source/Patorani)* for centuries developing their own sailing traditions along the way. These fishermen were able to sail as far as [Kimberley](/source/Kimberley_(Western_Australia)) region in west of Australia [reaching the indigenous people](/source/Makassan_contact_with_Australia#Western_Australia) there.[27] The [Indosiar](/source/Indosiar) channel was also prominently featured a flying fish in its logo during commercial breaks and on its ident only from 2000 to 2012.

## Prehistoric analogues

*[Thoracopterus](/source/Thoracopterus)* (above) and *[Cheirothrix](/source/Cheirothrix)* (below), two different [Mesozoic](/source/Mesozoic) analogues for flying fish

The oldest known fossil of a flying or gliding fish are those of the extinct family [Thoracopteridae](/source/Thoracopteridae), dating back to the [Middle Triassic](/source/Middle_Triassic), 235–242 million years ago.[28] However, they are thought to be basal [neopterygians](/source/Neopterygii) and are not related to modern flying fish, with the wing-like pectoral fins being [convergently evolved](/source/Convergently_evolved) in both lineages.[29] Similarly, the [Cheirothricidae](/source/Cheirothricidae) of the [Late Cretaceous](/source/Late_Cretaceous) also similarly evolved wing-like pectoral fins that were likely also used for gliding, but are indeterminate [eurypterygians](/source/Eurypterygia); they are possibly [Aulopiformes](/source/Aulopiformes), which would make them most closely related to [lizardfish](/source/Synodontidae).[30]

## See also

- [Flying and gliding animals](/source/Flying_and_gliding_animals)

- [Neuston](/source/Neuston)

- [Tradeoffs for locomotion in air and water](/source/Tradeoffs_for_locomotion_in_air_and_water)

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## External links

Wikimedia Commons has media related to [Exocoetidae](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Exocoetidae).

[Wikisource](/source/Wikisource) has the text of the [1911 *Encyclopædia Britannica*](/source/Encyclop%C3%A6dia_Britannica_Eleventh_Edition) article "[Flying-fish](https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/1911_Encyclop%C3%A6dia_Britannica/Flying-fish)".

- [Flying Fish, National Geographic Society](https://web.archive.org/web/20071017191701/http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/printable/flying-fish.html)

v t e Fish About fish Diversity Ethnoichthyology Evolution Diseases and parasites Fishing Fisheries Environmental impact of fishing - as food Fear of - FishBase Fish kill Hypoxia in - Ichthyology Anatomy and physiology Age determination Anguilliformity Bone dermal intramembranous ossification Cleithrum Chromatophore Fins dorsal fin Gill branchial arch gill raker gill slit pharyngeal arch pharyngeal slit pseudobranch Glossohyal Jaw hyomandibula pharyngeal jaw Leydig's organ Mauthner cell Meristics Operculum papillare Papilla Photophore Root effect Shark cartilage Scales ganoine Spiral valve Suckermouth Swim bladder physoclisti physostome Teeth pharyngeal shark Teleost leptins Digital Library Sensory systems Ampullae of Lorenzini Barbel Hydrodynamic reception Electroreception and electrogenesis Jamming avoidance response Lateral line Otolith Capacity for pain Schreckstoff Surface wave detection Vision Weberian apparatus Reproduction Bubble nest Clasper Egg case Development Ichthyoplankton Juvenile Life history theory Milt Mouthbrooder Polyandry Pregnancy Roe Sequential hermaphroditism Spawning triggers Locomotion Fin and flipper locomotion Amphibious Walking Flying Undulatory locomotion Tradeoffs for locomotion in air and water RoboTuna Other behaviour Aquatic predation Aquatic respiration Bait ball Bottom feeders Cleaner fish Corallivory Diel vertical migration Electric fish Filter feeders Forage fish Migratory Paedophagy Predatory Salmon run Sardine run Scale eaters Schooling fish Sleep Venomous Intelligence By habitat Cave Coastal Coldwater Coral reef Deep-sea Demersal Euryhaline Freshwater Groundfish Pelagic Tropical Other types Bait Coarse Diversity Game Genetically modified Hallucinogenic Oily Poisonous Rough Whitefish Commerce Farming Carp Catfish Octopus Salmonids Tilapia Wild fisheries Predatory billfish mackerel salmon tuna Forage anchovy herring sardine sprats Demersal cod flatfish pollock Major groups Jawless Hagfish Lampreys Cartilaginous Chimaeras Sharks Rays Bony Ray-finned Teleost Fleshy-finned Lists Aquarium life Blind Fish common names Fish families Glossary of ichthyology Largest Smallest Threatened rays sharks Prehistoric more lists... Category WikiProject

Taxon identifiers Exocoetidae Wikidata: Q183686 Wikispecies: Exocoetidae ADW: Exocoetidae AFD: Exocoetidae BOLD: 1329 CoL: 623QR EoL: 8245 GBIF: 2968 iNaturalist: 85777 IRMNG: 114845 ITIS: 165431 NBN: NBNSYS0000160007 NCBI: 76072 NZOR: c91e2e89-b8da-4a7e-867a-639e3f7479ff Open Tree of Life: 407171 Paleobiology Database: 266181 Plazi: FD1087D9-FFAE-4A5F-FF67-A5EB4A13FC9A WoRMS: 125452

Authority control databases International GND National United States France BnF data Japan Israel Other Yale LUX

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Adapted from the Wikipedia article [Flying fish](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flying_fish) by Wikipedia contributors ([contributor history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flying_fish?action=history)). Available under [Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/). Changes may have been made.