Fin's Fish Guide
The Freckled stargazer (Xenocephalus egregius) is a saltwater fish of the family Uranoscopidae that grows up to 33 cm.
Description
The freckled stargazer is a stargazer from the western Atlantic, from Georgia and the Florida Keys to the Gulf of Mexico and southern Texas. The species grows to about 33 cm and has the upward-directed eyes and mouth on top of a flattened head characteristic of stargazers, with a freckled pattern. Adults live on deeper shelf bottoms between about 180 and 440 metres, while young occur shallower. Unlike some relatives this species has no venom or electric organ. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Freckled stargazer?
The Freckled stargazer has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Eyes and mouth on top of the flattened head; no venom or electric organ
Where does the Freckled stargazer live?
The Freckled stargazer lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic
How big does the Freckled stargazer get?
The Freckled stargazer grows to a maximum of about 33 cm.
Is the Freckled stargazer dangerous to humans?
No, the Freckled stargazer is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Freckled stargazer edible?
The Freckled stargazer is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Freckled stargazer?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Freckled stargazer is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Xenocephalus
More from the family Uranoscopidae
Want the complete picture on the Freckled stargazer?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Freckled stargazer is one of 12,519 species in the app.