A TV crew filming off the southern tip of Japan has captured remarkable footage of a flying fish. The fish was in the air for a whopping 45 seconds, and the boat they were filming from was pacing along at around 20MPH - See video below.

There are 40 species of flying fish in the world and are found in warmer waters just about everywhere. The species has probably been doing occasional long flights for thousands of years, only to be captured on film finally by today’s camera laden society; Which brings up another point- You would think that these flying fish would be like fillet mignon for the local sea birds, or sort of like that rare, really good tasting treat they only get once in a while. Or, perhaps they eat them quite a bit, as it would seem like they’d be easy prey.

Anyhow, thinking of the mechanics behind the unique ability these fish have demanded that I do some further research. According to the National Geographic website, the fish actually begins it’s flight underwater. Like an airplane accelerating down a runway for take off, it propels itself to about 37 miles (60 kilometers) per hour. Seriously, just like an airplane, once Vr is achieved the fish literally angles itself upward until it leaves the water. Once out the water these fish can reach heights of 4 feet (1.2 meters) and have been known to glide 655 feet (200 meters).

The thing that sets this fish apart from other animals that break the water’s surface is that it takes actions to stay airborne and commonly achieves success in doing that. The fish beats it’s tail like the propeller on a hydrofoil, serving to propel the fish, which creates more lift and therefore… prolongs it’s flight.

It’s really quite amazing, but even more so to watch.

~ Capt’n Chris

Filed under: TidBits | |