Fin's Fish Guide
The Large-scaled gurnard (Lepidotrigla cavillone) is a saltwater fish of the family Triglidae that grows up to 23 cm.
Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic, on sandy and silty bottoms of the continental shelf.
Description
The large-scaled gurnard is a small gurnard of the family Triglidae reaching about 22 cm. The reddish body has an armoured, angular head, notably large scales 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. Like other gurnards it can make growling sounds with a drumming swim-bladder muscle. The species lives on sand and mud bottoms of the Mediterranean and the eastern Atlantic, on the continental shelf. It hunts small crustaceans, shrimps and worms. It is regularly landed as bycatch and is a valued ingredient of fish soup.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Large-scaled gurnard?
The Large-scaled gurnard has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Small, reddish gurnard with an armoured head, large scales and three free, finger-like lower pectoral fin rays for 'walking' over the bottom.
Where does the Large-scaled gurnard live?
The Large-scaled gurnard lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic, on sandy and silty bottoms of the continental shelf.
How big does the Large-scaled gurnard get?
The Large-scaled gurnard grows to a maximum of about 23 cm. On average the species is around 12 cm.
Is the Large-scaled gurnard dangerous to humans?
No, the Large-scaled gurnard is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Large-scaled gurnard edible?
Yes, the Large-scaled gurnard is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Large-scaled gurnard and live in the same waters.
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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 Large-scaled gurnard?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Large-scaled gurnard is one of 12,519 species in the app.