©Vivica von Vietinghoff/DMM

Tub gurnard

D-Roter Knurrhahn; GB-Tub gurnard; DK-Rød knùrhane; PL-Kurek czerwony; EST-Ruuge merikukk; RU-Жёлтая тригла; FIN-Isokurnusimppu; S-Fenknot

Characters

1) Each pectoral fin possesses three free mobile fin rays.
2) Long pectoral fins (reaching behind origin of anal fin).
●) Inner side of pectoral fins with striking blue edge.
●) Head covered with strong bony plates.
●) Body colouration red to strong red, abdomen whitish.
Usually 35 cm, maximum up to 75 cm length.

Similar species

Grey gurnard - short pectoral fins, reaching at most just over origin of anal fin; (often) dark spot on first dorsal fin; lateral line feels rough; body colouration brownish or greyish.

Biology

Occurs often over soft or mixed grounds; occasionally in freewater; sometimes also in brackish water; down to 300 m depth. Spawns from early to late summer. Life expectancy 15 years.

Diet

Feeds mainly on small fish like sprats; beside this, on fish fry and crustaceans.

Importance

Well-liked food fish.