Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackspotted gurnard (Pterygotrigla hemisticta) is a saltwater fish of the family Triglidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The blackspotted gurnard is a searobin from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a bony-armoured head, large fan-shaped pectoral fins and a pinkish-red body with dark spots. The lower pectoral fin rays are free and sensory; with them it 'walks' over the bottom and locates prey. As a bottom-dweller it lives on sandy and muddy bottoms of the deeper shelf and eats small crustaceans and worms. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackspotted gurnard?
The Blackspotted gurnard has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Free feeling pectoral fin rays; bony armoured head
Where does the Blackspotted gurnard live?
The Blackspotted gurnard lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Blackspotted gurnard get?
The Blackspotted gurnard grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Blackspotted gurnard dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackspotted gurnard is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Blackspotted gurnard edible?
Yes, the Blackspotted gurnard is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pterygotrigla
More from the family Triglidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackspotted gurnard?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackspotted gurnard is one of 12,519 species in the app.