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Flying gurnard — printable fact sheet
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Flying gurnard
Dactylopterus volitans
The flying gurnard is a distinctive marine fish known for its large, wing-like pectoral fins that can flare out like a fan, often displaying vibrant blue edges. Despite its name, it does not actually fly, but it uses its fins to glide along the sea floor and startle predators. T…
Did you know?
- The flying gurnard can produce audible grunting sounds using its swim bladder, a rare trait among fish.
- Flying gurnards can flare their large pectoral fins to appear much larger and ward off predators. Although they look like they might fly, they use their fins for gliding short distances underwater and for startling threats. Their name comes from the Latin 'volitans,' meaning 'flying.'
What I learned
Draw the flying gurnard
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