gurnards

Gurnards are a group of marine fish belonging to the family Triglidae, which includes around 100 species. They are characterized by their elongated, flat bodies, which are adapted for a benthic lifestyle, meaning they live on or near the seabed. Gurnards are found in both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, as well as in the Mediterranean Sea. They typically inhabit rocky or sandy substrates, often in depths ranging from shallow waters to around 200 meters.

The most well-known species is the European gurnard (Trigla lucerna), which is widely distributed in the North Atlantic Ocean. Gurnards are known for their distinctive appearance, with a flat, scaleless body and a large, rounded head. Their eyes are located on the top of their head, allowing them to see above the substrate. They have a single dorsal fin and a single anal fin, both located towards the rear of their body.

Gurnards are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of small invertebrates and plant material. They are often found in schools and are an important food source for larger marine predators. Due to their benthic lifestyle and relatively slow movement, gurnards are not typically targeted by commercial fisheries. However, some species are caught as bycatch in bottom trawl fisheries.

Gurnards play a role in marine ecosystems, contributing to nutrient cycling and serving as a food source for other species. Their conservation status varies by species, with some listed as vulnerable or near threatened due to habitat loss and overfishing. Ongoing research is needed to better understand their ecology and population dynamics to inform conservation efforts.