Flying Gurnard - Dactylopterus volitans - Blue-Spotted Wings Spread Across the Seabed

A Flying Gurnard (Dactylopterus volitans) displaying its spectacular blue-spotted pectoral fins above the sandy seabed at Ċirkewwa Marine Park, Malta.

This underwater photograph shows a Flying Gurnard (Dactylopterus volitans) displaying its spectacular wing-like pectoral fins above the sandy seabed at Ċirkewwa Marine Park, Malta. Viewed from above, the fish reveals an extraordinary pattern of bright blue spots, darker patches and delicate blue edging across its widely extended fins. Its elongated body, heavily armoured head and smaller forward pectoral fin sections are also visible, while the surrounding sandy bottom provides a contrasting background that emphasizes the colourful display. The Flying Gurnard is a distinctive bottom-dwelling marine fish found throughout the Mediterranean Sea and parts of the Atlantic Ocean. Despite its common name, it cannot fly through the air. Instead, its enlarged pectoral fins are used for visual display and may help deter potential predators by making the fish appear considerably larger. The smaller forward sections of the pectoral fins can assist with movement along the seabed as the fish searches for food. Flying Gurnards primarily feed on small crustaceans and other bottom-dwelling invertebrates, using their strong jaws to capture prey. This photograph captures one of the species’ most remarkable characteristics, revealing the intricate colours and patterns normally concealed when its broad pectoral fins are folded against the body.