Chelidonichthys ischyrus

Chelidonichthys ischyrus

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Chelidonichthys ischyrus, commonly known as the black gurnard, is a species of fish belonging to the family Triglidae. It is found in the Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic Ocean.

Description

The black gurnard has a distinctive appearance with a flattened body and large pectoral fins. It can reach a maximum length of 40 centimeters. The body coloration is predominantly black, with some individuals displaying reddish or brownish hues. The pectoral fins are elongated and have a black spot near the base. The species has a bony head and a large mouth with sharp teeth.

Distribution and Habitat

The black gurnard is primarily found in the Mediterranean Sea, including the western and eastern basins. It is also present in the eastern Atlantic Ocean, ranging from the Bay of Biscay to Senegal. This species inhabits sandy and muddy bottoms, as well as rocky areas, at depths ranging from 10 to 200 meters.

Behavior

Black gurnards are bottom-dwelling fish that feed on a variety of small invertebrates, such as crustaceans and mollusks. They use their pectoral fins to "walk" along the seafloor, searching for prey. These fish are known to be solitary and territorial, often defending their preferred feeding areas.

Conservation

The conservation status of Chelidonichthys ischyrus is currently unknown. Further research is needed to assess the population size and potential threats to this species. It is important to monitor and protect their habitats to ensure their long-term survival.