ANIMAL SPECIES:Spiny Gurnard, Lepidotrigla papilio (Cuvier, 1829)
The Spiny Gurnard has a an ocellus on the first dorsal fin and three detached and thickened lower pectoral fin rays. Enlarged spiny scales run along the lateral line and along the bases of the two dorsal fins.
Identification
The Spiny Gurnard has a an ocellus on the first dorsal fin and three detached and thickened lower pectoral fin rays. Enlarged spiny scales run along the lateral line and along the bases of the two dorsal fins.
Size range
The species grows to 20 cm in length.Distribution
The Spiny Gurnard is endemic to Australia. It occurs in southern temperate marine waters from central New South Wales to south-western Western Australia.
Distribution by collection data
Biomaps map of Spiny Gurnard specimens in the Australian Museum collection.
Habitat
It lives mostly in sand and rubble areas in estuaries and coastal reefs.
Behaviour and adaptations
Other behaviours and adaptations
When disturbed, the species often spreads its blue-margined pectoral fins. This behaviour is likely to startle potential predators.
Classification
- Species:
- papilio
- Genus:
- Lepidotrigla
- Family:
- Triglidae
- Order:
- Scorpaeniformes
- Class:
- Actinopterygii
- Subphylum:
- Vertebrata
- Phylum:
- Chordata
- Kingdom:
- Animalia
References
- Gomon, M.F. in Gomon, M.F, Glover, C.J.M. & R.H. Kuiter (Eds). 1994. The Fishes of Australia's South Coast. State Print, Adelaide. Pp. 992.
- Hutchins, B. & R. Swainston. 1986. Sea Fishes of Southern Australia. Complete Field Guide for Anglers and Divers. Swainston Publishing. Pp. 180.
- Kuiter, R.H. 1996. Guide to Sea Fishes of Australia. New Holland. Pp. 433. (as Lepidotrigla pleuracanthica).
- Kuiter, R.H. 2000. Coastal Fishes of South-eastern Australia. Gary Allen. Pp. 437. (as Lepidotrigla pleuracanthica).
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A Spiny Gurnard at Fly Point View full size
Dave Harasti
© Dave Harasti
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