Flying Gurnard

Also known as Helmet Gurnard, Batfish, Cephalacanth

Flying gurnards patrol shallow coastal floors on modified pelvic fins that allow them to practically walk across sandy substrates in search of buried invertebrates. When startled or displaying to rivals, they unfurl enormous, semi-transparent pectoral fins bordered with iridescent electric-blue spots that mimic eyes and make them appear dramatically larger. Despite their common name, these heavy-bodied bottom-dwellers cannot take flight above the water surface, relying instead on heavy armored head plates and camouflage to deter predators.