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Gurnard, Grey
Eutrigla gurnardus
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BIOLOGY
Gurnards belong to a group of fish known collectively as Trigliadae (sea robins). Although an offshore species, grey gurnard is occasionally found in shallow water. They spawn in April to August in deep water. The maximum life span rarely exceeds 6 years. They can attain a length of 45cm, but are usually around 30cm. Sexually mature at a length of about 18 cms and an age of 3 years (males) and about 24 cms and 4 years (females).They have a strong seasonal migration throughout the North Sea. Gurnards are able to grunt or growl by use of muscles associated with the swim bladder, and this is believed to aid in keeping schools together.
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STOCK OR FISHERY DETAIL
No assessment of stocks by ICES in North East Atlantic. It is a non-pressure or unprotected species i.e. not subject to quota restrictions.
No assessment of stocks by ICES |
STOCK INFORMATION
There is no specific information available about the stock status of the grey gurnard. In the North Sea three areas with high abundance have been distinguished, suggesting three sub-populations: northwest of the Dogger Bank, one around Shetland and one in the Skagerrak/Kattegat.
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CAPTURE OR FARMING INFORMATION
Taken as by-catch in trawl fisheries in deeper offshore waters.
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ADVICE
Grey gurnard is a fast growing fish and matures early at a large size. Avoid eating immature fish (less than 24cm) and fresh (not previously frozen) fish caught during spawning season (April-August)
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REFERENCE
Sea Fish. BJ Muus and JG Nielsen (1999). Scandanavian Fishing Year Book.
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