Shortfin flyingfish and Similar Species
Exocoetus brachypterus
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Shortfin flyingfish. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Oceanic Two-wing Flyingfish
Exocoetus volitans
Key differences: While also a 'two-winged' flyingfish, E. volitans typically has slightly longer pectoral fins that may just reach the dorsal fin origin, and often has a more slender body. Differentiation can be challenging and often requires careful examination of fin lengths relative to body landmarks.
Tropical Two-wing Flyingfish
Exocoetus monocirrhus
Key differences: E. monocirrhus is distinguished by the presence of a single barbel on the chin of juveniles, which is absent in E. brachypterus at all life stages. Adults of E. monocirrhus also tend to have slightly different body proportions.
Mirrorwing Flyingfish
Hirundichthys speculiger
Key differences: H. speculiger is a 'four-winged' flyingfish, meaning its pelvic fins are significantly longer and used in gliding, reaching well past the anal fin origin. E. brachypterus has short pelvic fins that do not contribute to flight.
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