Flying fish are remarkable marine creatures, known for their distinctive ability to launch themselves from the water and journey through the air. While these animals do not achieve powered flight like birds, their powerful glides represent a fascinating natural phenomenon. This article explores the specific mechanics of their aerial movements, the impressive distances they can cover, and the reasons behind their unusual behavior.
The Mechanics of Their Glide
Flying fish initiate their aerial excursions by building considerable speed underwater, often reaching velocities over 56 kilometers per hour (35 miles per hour). They achieve this by rapidly beating their lower, elongated tail fin (caudal fin) against the water’s surface, generating the necessary thrust to break free. Once they emerge, their large pectoral fins, resembling rigid wings, spread wide to provide lift.
Some species, referred to as “four-winged” flying fish, also deploy their smaller pelvic fins for additional lift and stability during their glides. The streamlined, torpedo-shaped body of the fish further contributes to their aerodynamic efficiency by minimizing air resistance. Flying fish are gliders; they do not flap their fins to generate continuous lift.
Typical Distances and Records
A typical glide by a flying fish usually spans around 50 meters (160 feet). However, under favorable conditions, such as strong updrafts from waves, these fish can cover significantly greater distances, with observed glides reaching up to 400 meters (1,300 feet). They can also perform a “taxiing” maneuver, where they dip their lower tail fin into the water to gain renewed propulsion and extend their airborne time through successive glides.
The duration of a typical glide is generally a few seconds, ranging from 2 to 10 seconds. A flight recorded by a Japanese television crew in 2008 documented a flying fish remaining airborne for 45 seconds. During these aerial phases, flying fish can reach altitudes of up to 6 meters (20 feet) above the water’s surface. The species, its size, prevailing wind conditions, and wave action all influence the distance and duration of a glide.
Why They Take to the Air
The primary reason flying fish take to the air is to escape aquatic predators. Fast-swimming hunters like tuna, mahi-mahi, swordfish, and dolphins pose a constant threat, and a sudden aerial escape allows flying fish to evade pursuit and re-enter the water at a different, safer location. This brief airborne maneuver provides an advantage in the open ocean where hiding spots are scarce.
While airborne, flying fish become vulnerable to avian predators such as frigate birds, which can snatch them from the air. Beyond predator evasion, gliding can offer an energy-efficient mode of movement compared to sustained high-speed swimming. Additionally, environmental factors like strong currents or rough sea conditions may prompt them to leap from the water.