Chelidonichthys
Chelidonichthys is a genus of marine fish in the family Triglidae, commonly known as gurnards. They are characterized by their large, flattened heads and bodies, and their elongated, rayed pectoral fins which resemble “fingers.” These “fingers” are used to explore the seabed for prey, which consists mainly of crustaceans, worms, and small fish. The genus encompasses several species, with a distribution range across the northeastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.
Common Names
Chelidonichthys species are known by a variety of common names, including:
- Red gurnard
- Striped gurnard
- Grey gurnard
- Tub gurnard
- Sea robin
Characteristics
Chelidonichthys species possess the following characteristics:
- Large, flattened head and body: This shape helps them to maneuver on the seabed.
- Elongated, rayed pectoral fins: These "fingers" are used for exploring the seabed for prey.
- Large eyes: They are well adapted to low-light conditions.
- Barbels on the chin: These sensory organs are used to detect prey.
- Scales: Chelidonichthys species are covered in scales that can vary in size and pattern depending on the species.
- Coloration: Their coloration can range from reddish-brown to gray, often with stripes or spots.
Environments
Chelidonichthys species are typically found in coastal waters, from the intertidal zone to depths of around 200 meters. They prefer sandy or muddy bottoms, where they can use their "fingers" to explore for prey.
References
For more information on Chelidonichthys, please refer to the following websites: