Spiny red gurnard

Spiny Red Gurnard

The Spiny Red Gurnard (Chelidonichthys spinosus) is a species of sea robin in the family Triglidae. It is found in the Atlantic Ocean, specifically in the eastern region, and the Mediterranean Sea.

Description

The Spiny Red Gurnard is a distinctive fish with a large, bony head and a body covered in tough, spiny scales. It is known for its bright red coloration, which can range from a deep, brick red to a lighter, more orange hue. The fish can reach up to 38 cm in length, but most specimens are around 20 cm.

Habitat and Distribution

The Spiny Red Gurnard is a benthic species, meaning it lives on or near the bottom of the sea. It is found at depths of 10 to 200 meters, usually on sandy or muddy bottoms. Its distribution ranges from the British Isles to Morocco, and from the Azores to the Black Sea.

Behavior and Diet

Spiny Red Gurnards are known for their unique method of locomotion. They use their pectoral fins to 'walk' along the sea floor, searching for food. Their diet primarily consists of crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish.

Reproduction

The Spiny Red Gurnard is an oviparous species, meaning it lays eggs. The eggs are buoyant and are released into the water column, where they are fertilized externally. The larvae are planktonic, drifting with the currents until they are large enough to settle on the sea floor.

Conservation Status

The Spiny Red Gurnard is not currently considered to be at risk of extinction. However, like many marine species, it is potentially threatened by overfishing, habitat degradation, and climate change.

References

• FishBase. "Chelidonichthys spinosus (McClelland, 1844) Spiny red gurnard". Retrieved 2021-12-01.
• IUCN Red List. "Chelidonichthys spinosus". Retrieved 2021-12-01.

External Links

• FishBase Species Summary
• IUCN Red List Entry