Fin's Fish Guide
The Horned searobin (Bellator militaris) is a brackish-water fish of the family Triglidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
Bellator militaris is a small searobin of the family Triglidae from the western Atlantic. The species has an armoured head with bony projections (hence 'horned'), large, wing-like pectoral fins and separate, finger-like lower pectoral rays with which it 'walks' over the bottom and probes for prey. It reaches about 12 cm and occurs from bays and estuaries to the mid-shelf. Unlike weeverfishes this species has no venom glands, so it is harmless. The diet consists of small bottom invertebrates. The species is sometimes landed as bycatch.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Horned searobin?
The Horned searobin has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Finger-shaped pectoral fin rays for 'walking' over the bottom; no venom glands (harmless).
Where does the Horned searobin live?
The Horned searobin lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Coastal waters and continental shelf of the western Atlantic.
How big does the Horned searobin get?
The Horned searobin grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Horned searobin dangerous to humans?
No, the Horned searobin 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 Horned searobin edible?
The Horned searobin is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Bellator
More from the family Triglidae
Want the complete picture on the Horned searobin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Horned searobin is one of 12,519 species in the app.