Fin's Fish Guide
The Butterfly gurnard (Lepidotrigla mulhalli) is a saltwater fish of the family Triglidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Temperate waters around southern Australia; sandy bottoms of the continental shelf.
Description
The roundsnout gurnard is a sea robin of the gurnard family (Triglidae) from the temperate waters around southern Australia. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a red-brown body with an armoured head and large, fan-like pectoral fins. The lower pectoral rays are modified into free, finger-like feelers with which it probes and feels the sand bottom for prey. It lives on sand bottoms of the continental shelf. As a bottom searcher it feeds on small crustaceans, worms and molluscs. Gurnards can make grunting sounds with the swim bladder. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Butterfly gurnard?
The Butterfly gurnard has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Finger-like separate lower pectoral fin rays for probing the sandy bottom; makes grunting sounds.
Where does the Butterfly gurnard live?
The Butterfly gurnard lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Temperate waters around southern Australia; sandy bottoms of the continental shelf.
How big does the Butterfly gurnard get?
The Butterfly gurnard grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Butterfly gurnard dangerous to humans?
No, the Butterfly gurnard is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Butterfly gurnard edible?
The Butterfly gurnard is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lepidotrigla
More from the family Triglidae
Want the complete picture on the Butterfly gurnard?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Butterfly gurnard is one of 12,519 species in the app.