Dactylopterus volitans

Dactylopterus volitans (Linnaeus, 1758) is a species of actinopterygii belonging to the family Dactylopteridae (order Scorpaeniformes).

Common name. In English this species is commonly known as the flying gurnard.

Taxonomy. The scientific name Dactylopterus volitans (Linnaeus, 1758) places this species within the actinopterygii lineage, among the most diverse vertebrates on Earth.

Description & ecology. As a member of Scorpaeniformes, Dactylopterus volitans exhibits the group's characteristic adaptations: They are bottom-dwelling, often spiny and venomous 'mail-cheeked' fishes (scorpionfishes, sculpins). Its biology reflects the demands of its particular habitat and life history within the family Dactylopteridae.

Distribution. The species occurs within the natural range of its lineage; precise localities and depth preferences are documented in the taxonomic literature for Dactylopteridae.

Human relevance. Like many fishes, it may be of interest to fisheries, aquaculture, the aquarium trade, or conservation, depending on its abundance and distribution.