How to Identify Streaked Gurnard

To identify Streaked Gurnard (Trigloporus lastoviza), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Variable, typically reddish-brown to greyish-pink on the dorsal side, fading to lighter shades on the flanks and belly. Often marked with darker blotches or irregular bands. The pectoral fins are particularly striking, often displaying iridescent blue or green spots and a dark margin.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Large, bony head with a steep profile and prominent ridges and spines., Two separate dorsal fins., Greatly enlarged, fan-like pectoral fins with three detached, finger-like rays at the bottom., Relatively large eyes., Lateral line is prominent and runs along the body.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins: the first with 9-11 strong, spiny rays; the second with 16-18 soft rays.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is slightly emarginate (forked) to truncate.

Pectoral fin

Very large and fan-like, reaching beyond the origin of the anal fin. The lower three rays are free, thickened, and used for locomotion and sensing.

Distinctive fins

The free pectoral fin rays are a key diagnostic feature, allowing the fish to 'walk' on the seabed and probe for food.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Pectoral Fins

   Look for the large, fan-like pectoral fins with three distinct, free rays at the bottom. These rays are often used for 'walking' and probing the substrate.

2. 2

   Head Shape

   Observe the large, bony head with a steep profile and prominent ridges and spines, characteristic of gurnards.

3. 3

   Coloration

   Note the reddish-brown to greyish-pink body coloration, often with darker blotches, and the frequently iridescent blue or green spots on the pectoral fins.

4. 4

   Dorsal Fins

   Identify the two distinct dorsal fins: a spiny first dorsal and a soft-rayed second dorsal.

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