Cheilopogon cyanopterus, commonly known as the bluefin flyingfish, is a species of flyingfish found in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Atlantic Ocean. This remarkable fish is renowned for its ability to leap out of the water and glide for considerable distances using its elongated pectoral fins, resembling flight.
Description & Characteristics
Cheilopogon cyanopterus can reach a maximum size of 40.0 cm in length. Its body is characterized by a streamlined shape, well-suited for its aerial escapades. The fish boasts distinctive blue fins, which are the source of its common name, and a silvery-blue body adorned with dark spots.
Habitat and Occurrence
Cheilopogon cyanopterus is primarily found in the epipelagic zone, which encompasses the upper layer of the ocean where sunlight penetrates. This zone extends from the surface down to a depth of approximately 200 meters. These fish are typically found in waters ranging from 0.0 to 20.0 meters deep, making them inhabitants of shallower coastal areas. The bluefin flyingfish favors warm, tropical, and subtropical waters.
Taxonomy
The species Cheilopogon cyanopterus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Beloniformes, and Family: Exocoetidae. This classification places Cheilopogon cyanopterus within a diverse group of fishes known as the flyingfishes, characterized by their elongated pectoral fins. This unique adaptation allows these fishes to escape predators and navigate their watery environment with ease.
Feeding
Cheilopogon cyanopterus primarily feeds on plankton, which is a collective term for microscopic organisms that drift in the water. This diet consists of both phytoplankton (plant-based) and zooplankton (animal-based) forms. The flyingfish utilizes its small, sharp teeth to filter feed on these tiny organisms, efficiently capturing its prey from the water column.
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