Fin's Fish Guide
The Notchtail stargazer (Dactyloscopus byersi) is a fish of the family Dactyloscopidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The notchtail stargazer is a sand stargazer (Dactyloscopidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species has an elongate body with upward-pointing eyes and an upturned mouth, adapted to life largely buried in sand. From its hiding place only the eyes and mouth project above the sediment, with which as an ambush hunter it springs on passing prey. It lives on shallow sandy bottoms of coastal waters and feeds on small crustaceans and small fishes. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Notchtail stargazer?
The Notchtail stargazer is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Upward-directed eyes and mouth; lies buried in sand and pounces on prey swimming past.
Where does the Notchtail stargazer live?
The Notchtail stargazer is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific; shallow sandy bottoms of coastal waters.
How big does the Notchtail stargazer get?
The Notchtail stargazer grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Notchtail stargazer dangerous to humans?
No, the Notchtail stargazer is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Notchtail stargazer edible?
The Notchtail 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 Notchtail stargazer?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Notchtail stargazer is one of 12,519 species in the app.