The First Landing of Flying Gurnard (Dactyloptena orientalis, Cuvier, 1829) at Ratnagiri, Maharashtra State, the Western Coast of India: An Ecological Overview

Background The present study aimed to report the first landing of the flying gurnard ( Dactyloptena orientalis ) at Ratnagiri, Maharashtra state, the western coast of India and to explore the ecological implications. Total seven specimens were collected from the local fishermen. The identification and the detailed study of the morphology of the fish and their ecological behaviour was completed in the laboratory. This study sought to fill a critical knowledge gap on the role of the species especially along the western coast of India since the species is not commonly observed. Results The landing of the flying gurnard in Ratnagiri was the first spotting of the species in the region. The average standard length (TL) of the fish was measured as 118.0 ± 0.41 mm. The findings of this study show that the landing of D. orientalis might be an indication of the current status of marine biodiversity and health, therefore more focused and specialized conservation measures are required for the species and the environment it inhabits. The study also pointed out the ecological significance of D. orientalis where it acts both as a predator and a prey in the marine food web as well as being capable of withstanding different environmental conditions. Conclusion This study contributed to the current information of D. orientalis particularly its function in the ecosystem of marine waters off Ratnagiri. Hence, the importance of constant observation and proper management practices arise from changes in the marine environment and flexibility of other organisms in the ecosystem to acclimatize to the changing conditions. The socio-economic effects on the fishing communities suggested that the integration of this species can modify fishing techniques and market trends, thus calling for sustainability concerns.