Large pectoral fins with very solid skull. Six spiny legs on each side and sharp spines on the gill plates and dorsal fins that inject a mild poison that can cause mild pain for a couple of days. They croak when you catch them.

Red gurnard are found on muddy sandy ground adjacent to rocks. They can be found in deep or shallow waters.

In past times these fish were either thrown back or used as bait by fishermen. Nowadays they are regarded as a good eating fish and their popularity is increasing. They are a sustainable fish although best avoided, if possible, during the spring and early summer as it is their spawning season.