Flying gurnard
Dactylopterus volitans
(Linnaeus, 1758)
Description:
Body in shades of gray to yellow brown with white spots. Snout blunt. Pectoral fins very large and fan-like, often with a brilliant, iridescent blue line and dot markings (D. volitans).
Maximum size: 90 cm.
Habitat:
Found on sand, mud or over rocks in sandy areas, exploring the bottom with the free part of the pectoral fin, down to 15 m. If alarmed, they spread their pectoral fins and swim away. Feeds primarily on crustaceans, mollusks and small fishes.
Distribution:
Occasional to uncommon Florida, Bahamas and Caribbean.