Fin's Fish Guide
The Grey gurnard (Eutrigla gurnardus) is a saltwater fish of the family Triglidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Northeast Atlantic, including the North Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, on sandy and silty bottoms.
Description
The grey gurnard is a bottom fish of the family Triglidae reaching about 60 cm. The elongate, grey-brown body has an armoured, angular head and large, fan-shaped pectoral fins. Characteristic are the three separate, finger-like lower pectoral rays on each side, with which the fish 'walks' over the bottom as if on legs and feels for prey in the sand. Using a special swim-bladder muscle it can make growling or grunting sounds. The species lives on sand and mud bottoms of the north-eastern Atlantic, the North Sea and the Mediterranean. It hunts shrimps, crabs, small crustaceans and small fish. The grey gurnard is a much-caught bycatch and food fish with firm white flesh.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Grey gurnard?
The Grey gurnard has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Gurnard with an armoured head and three separate, finger-like rays below each pectoral fin, with which the fish 'walks' over the bottom and feels for prey; can make grunting sounds.
Where does the Grey gurnard live?
The Grey gurnard lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northeast Atlantic, including the North Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, on sandy and silty bottoms.
How big does the Grey gurnard get?
The Grey gurnard grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Grey gurnard dangerous to humans?
No, the Grey gurnard is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Grey gurnard edible?
Yes, the Grey gurnard is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Grey gurnard and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Triglidae
Want the complete picture on the Grey gurnard?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Grey gurnard is one of 12,519 species in the app.