Dixie Major, age 7, of Cheyenne, Wyo., for her question:

HOWFAR CAN A FLYING FISH FLY?

A flying fish can make a flight through the air of between 150 and 1,000 feet.

The flying fish actually throws itself from the water with the motion of its very strong tail. In the air, the fish spreads large fins which act like wings. Both body muscles and the tail fin help the fish to turn in flight. Flights can last from two to 15 seconds.

Flying fish often swim together in large groups called schools. They live in all of the world's warm seas and come in various sizs. Largest species is the Catalina flying fish which is found off the Southern California coast. It measures about 18 inches in length.

The flying ability is a defense mechanism. In escaping from their enemies, the tuna and shark, the silvery flying fish rise free of the water and glide through the air.