Small wing flyingfish, Oxyporhamphus micropteru.

Flying fish live in all of the oceans, particularly in tropical and warm subtropical waters. They are commonly found in the epipelagic zone, the top layer of the ocean to a depth of about 200 m. It is often known as the “sunlight zone” because it is where most of the visible light exists. Nearly all primary production, or photosynthesis, happens in this zone.

Therefore, the vast majority of plants and animals inhabit this area and can vary from plankton to the sharks. Although the epipelagic zone is an exceptional area for variety in life, it also has its drawbacks. Due to the vast variety of organisms, high numbers of prey and predation relationships exist.

Life on the Edge: Exploring Deep Ocean Habitats: August 16 – 27, 2003