Fin's Fish Guide
The Lancer stargazer (Kathetostoma albigutta) is a saltwater fish of the family Uranoscopidae that grows up to 28 cm.
Description
The lancer stargazer (Kathetostoma albigutta) is a stocky bottom fish of the family Uranoscopidae from the western Atlantic. The species has a broad, armoured head with the eyes and the upward-pointing mouth on top, so that, buried in the sand, it can look up and lunge at passing prey. The body is brownish with white spots and reaches about 28 cm. It inhabits offshore waters on soft bottoms. Above the pectoral fin it bears a lance-like shoulder spine with a venom gland, which can give a painful sting when handled. As an ambush predator it feeds on small fishes and crustaceans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lancer stargazer?
The Lancer stargazer has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Eyes and mouth on top of the head; lance-shaped venomous spine above the pectoral fin; buries itself in the sand.
Where does the Lancer stargazer live?
The Lancer stargazer lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Soft bottoms of offshore waters of the western Atlantic.
How big does the Lancer stargazer get?
The Lancer stargazer grows to a maximum of about 28 cm.
Is the Lancer stargazer dangerous to humans?
The Lancer stargazer is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Above the pectoral fin is a lance-like spine with a venom gland that can give a painful sting. Do not touch a buried or captured specimen; in case of a sting, rinse the wound, remove any material and immerse it for 30-90 minutes in water of about 45 °C, and seek medical help in case of severe pain.
Is the Lancer stargazer edible?
The Lancer stargazer is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Kathetostoma
More from the family Uranoscopidae
Want the complete picture on the Lancer stargazer?
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