FLYING FISH

(Cypselurus lineatus).

This, the largest of our flying fishes, grows to 15 in. in length and is generally distributed in East Coast waters from the Bay of Plenty northwards. The colour is dark steely-blue on top and lighter below. The body resembles that of a mullet except for the so-called wings, which are greatly enlarged membranous fins. These enable the fish to accomplish planing flights of up to 100 yds at speeds of between 20 and 30 miles an hour. The reason for these flights is to elude fast-swimming predacious fish.

by Arthur William Baden Powell, Assistant Director, Auckland Institute and Museum.