Lesser gurnard

Lesser Gurnard

File:Lesser gurnard.jpg

A Lesser Gurnard

The Lesser Gurnard, also known as the Trigla lyra, is a species of fish belonging to the family Triglidae. It is found in the coastal waters of the northeastern Atlantic Ocean, ranging from the British Isles to the Mediterranean Sea.

Description

The Lesser Gurnard has a distinctive appearance with a flattened body and large pectoral fins. It can grow up to 30 centimeters in length and has a reddish-brown coloration with mottled patterns. The fish has a long, pointed snout and a mouth filled with sharp teeth.

Habitat and Distribution

The Lesser Gurnard is commonly found in sandy or muddy seabeds, often near rocky areas or seagrass beds. It prefers shallow waters, typically at depths ranging from 10 to 100 meters. This species is most abundant in the northeastern Atlantic, including the North Sea, the English Channel, and the Mediterranean Sea.

Behavior

Lesser Gurnards are bottom-dwelling fish that primarily feed on small crustaceans, mollusks, and other small fish. They use their pectoral fins to "walk" along the seabed, stirring up the sediment to uncover prey. These fish are known for their ability to produce a grunting sound by rubbing their swim bladder against specialized muscles, which is believed to be a form of communication.

Conservation Status

The Lesser Gurnard is not currently listed as a threatened species. However, like many other marine species, it faces various threats such as habitat degradation, overfishing, and pollution. Conservation efforts are important to ensure the long-term survival of this species and maintain the health of its ecosystems.

See Also

• Triglidae
• North Sea
• English Channel
• Mediterranean Sea

External Links

• IUCN Red List - Lesser Gurnard
• FishBase - Trigla lyra