Fin's Fish Guide
The Bluefin gurnard (Chelidonichthys kumu) is a brackish-water fish of the family Triglidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Indo-Pacific, from estuaries to the edge of the continental shelf on sand and shell bottoms; sometimes in rivers.
Description
The bluefin gurnard is a sea robin (family Triglidae) of the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 60 cm and has an elongate, reddish body with a bony-armoured head and large, conspicuously blue-edged pectoral fins. The lower pectoral-fin rays are separate, finger-like appendages with which the fish 'walks' over the bottom and detects prey. It lives from estuaries to the edge of the continental shelf on sand and shell bottoms, and sometimes occurs in rivers. Its diet consists of crustaceans, molluscs and small fishes. The sharp head and fin spines can cause painful puncture wounds; the species is of commercial value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bluefin gurnard?
The Bluefin gurnard has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Finger-like, separate lower pectoral fin rays for 'walking' over the bottom; strikingly blue-edged pectoral fins.
Where does the Bluefin gurnard live?
The Bluefin gurnard lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Indo-Pacific, from estuaries to the edge of the continental shelf on sand and shell bottoms; sometimes in rivers.
How big does the Bluefin gurnard get?
The Bluefin gurnard grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Bluefin gurnard dangerous to humans?
The Bluefin gurnard is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Beware the sharp head and fin spines, which can cause painful puncture wounds; clean the wound and seek medical care if pain or inflammation increases.
Is the Bluefin gurnard edible?
Yes, the Bluefin gurnard is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Bluefin gurnard?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bluefin gurnard is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Chelidonichthys
More from the family Triglidae
Want the complete picture on the Bluefin gurnard?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bluefin gurnard is one of 12,519 species in the app.