Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackwing searobin (Prionotus rubio) is a saltwater fish of the family Triglidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Western Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, on sand and silty bottoms of the continental shelf.
Description
The blackwing searobin is a bottom fish of the family Triglidae (searobins) reaching about 30 cm. The head is bony-armoured and the red-brown body bears large, fan-shaped pectoral fins that stand out like wings when swimming. The lowest pectoral rays are freed into leg-like feelers with which the fish 'walks' over the bottom and probes sand and mud for prey. The species lives on sand and mud bottoms of the continental shelf in the western Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico. On the bottom it searches for small crustaceans, worms and small fish. With its swim bladder it can make growling sounds, hence the name 'searobin'.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackwing searobin?
The Blackwing searobin has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Bottom fish with a bony armoured head and large, fan-shaped pectoral fins; the lower fin rays are separate 'legs' for feeling along the bottom.
Where does the Blackwing searobin live?
The Blackwing searobin lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, on sand and silty bottoms of the continental shelf.
How big does the Blackwing searobin get?
The Blackwing searobin grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Blackwing searobin dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackwing searobin is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blackwing searobin edible?
The Blackwing searobin is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Blackwing searobin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackwing searobin is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Prionotus
More from the family Triglidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackwing searobin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackwing searobin is one of 12,519 species in the app.