Fin's Fish Guide
The Moonstruck stargazer (Dactyloscopus lunaticus) is a saltwater fish of the family Dactyloscopidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The moonstruck sand stargazer is a small sand stargazer (Dactyloscopidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species has an elongate body with an upward-directed mouth and eyes high on the head, adapted to life buried in sand. It lives on sand bottoms of shallow coastal waters, where it buries up to just below the eyes and lies in wait. As an ambush hunter it springs on passing small crustaceans and small fishes. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Moonstruck stargazer?
The Moonstruck stargazer has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Buries itself in sand up to just below the eyes and peers upward for prey.
Where does the Moonstruck stargazer live?
The Moonstruck stargazer lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific; sandy bottoms of shallow coastal waters.
How big does the Moonstruck stargazer get?
The Moonstruck stargazer grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Moonstruck stargazer dangerous to humans?
No, the Moonstruck stargazer is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Moonstruck stargazer edible?
The Moonstruck stargazer is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Dactyloscopus
More from the family Dactyloscopidae
Want the complete picture on the Moonstruck stargazer?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Moonstruck stargazer is one of 12,519 species in the app.