The tub gurnard is the largest of the European gurnards reaching a maximum length of 75cm, although most individuals are between 50-60cm. Like all gurnards it has a large head covered by protective bony plates, and the lower three rays of the pectoral fin are separate and fleshy. The colour can vary from bright red with pinkish mottling to yellowish-brown with darker brown or green mottling. The pectoral fins have brilliant peacock blue spots and outer rim. Unlike the red gurnard it does not have enlarged lateral line scales. The tub gurnard may be confused with the red gurnard (Aspitrigla cuculus) and the grey gurnard (Eutrigla gurnardus) however the brilliant blue markings on the pectoral fins are characteristic of the tub gurnard.

This species is found all around the coasts of Britain and Ireland but like the red gurnard it is a relatively uncommon fish.

The tub gurnard is usually found on mud or sandy seabeds from 2-20m depth. It mainly feeds on small fish e.g. sand eels, small flatfish, gobies, dragonets and also crabs and shrimps.

Trigla lucerna is prey of:
Ciliata mustella
Aves

Based on studies in:
Portugal (Estuarine)

This list may not be complete but is based on published studies.

Trigla lucerna preys on:
Gammaridae
Cirratulidae
Capitellidae
Maldanidae
Carcinus maenas
Crangon crangon
Nereis diversicolor
Pomatoschistus minutus

Based on studies in:
Portugal (Estuarine)

This list may not be complete but is based on published studies.