Helmet Gurnard [Dactyloptena orientalis]
Description
The Helmet Gurnard is a unique marine species found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly near reefs or sandy bottoms. They are recognized by their large, wing-like pectoral fins and elongated body. They use their pelvic fins to 'walk' along the seafloor while searching for prey, which typically includes small fishes and crustaceans. The Helmet Gurnard has a distinctive helmet-like crest on its head, which is where it gets its common name. They can reach up to 40 cm in length.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Chordates
Chordata
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Fish
Actinopterygii
|
| Order |
Scorpionfishes and Flatheads
Scorpaeniformes
|
| Family |
Searobins
Triglidae
|
| Genus |
Helmet gurnards
Lepidotrigla
|