Flying Gurnard – Dactylopterus volitans – Family meeting

Flying Gurnard – Dactylopterus volitans – Family meeting

Flying Gurnard – Dactylopteridae

Flying gurnards are members of the family Dactylopteridae, recognized for their spectacularly enlarged pectoral fins that spread like wings when the fish is alarmed or displaying. Despite their name, they cannot truly fly, but the wing-like fins create a striking underwater spectacle. Sometimes also called helmet gurnards, they are the only family in the suborder Dactylopteroidei. Their unusual form and vibrant patterns make them captivating subjects for underwater photography.