Fin's Fish Guide
The Sieve stargazer (Xenocephalus cribratus) is a saltwater fish of the family Uranoscopidae that grows up to 23 cm.
Description
The sieve stargazer is a stargazer (Uranoscopidae) from sand and mud bottoms around Australia and the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a stocky, smooth body with a large, upturned mouth and high-set eyes, so it can lurk almost fully buried. As an ambush predator it lunges up at passing small fish and crustaceans. Behind the head it bears venomous shoulder spines that can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sieve stargazer?
The Sieve stargazer has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Sieve stargazer live?
The Sieve stargazer lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Australia
How big does the Sieve stargazer get?
The Sieve stargazer grows to a maximum of about 23 cm.
Is the Sieve stargazer dangerous to humans?
The Sieve stargazer is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. For a sting from a fin spine: rinse the wound, remove any visible spine fragments and immerse the part for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) to break down the venom. The pain can be severe. For marked swelling, a retained spine or signs of infection seek medical care and check tetanus status.
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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 Sieve stargazer?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sieve stargazer is one of 12,519 species in the app.