Fin's Fish Guide
The Southern stargazer (Astroscopus y-graecum) is a saltwater fish of the family Uranoscopidae that grows up to 43 cm.
Description
The southern stargazer (Astroscopus y-graecum) is a remarkable 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 brown body is studded with white spots and reaches about 43 cm. Notably the species has an electric organ behind the eyes with which it can deliver a shock, and bears venomous spines above the pectoral fins. When handled it can give both an electric shock and a painful sting.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Southern stargazer?
The Southern stargazer has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Eyes and mouth on top of the head; has an electric organ and venomous spines; buries itself in the sand.
Where does the Southern stargazer live?
The Southern stargazer lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Sandy bottoms of coastal waters of the western Atlantic.
How big does the Southern stargazer get?
The Southern stargazer grows to a maximum of about 43 cm.
Is the Southern stargazer dangerous to humans?
The Southern stargazer can cause injury; handle it with care. The species can deliver an electric shock and has venomous spines above the pectoral fins. 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 or a shock reaction.
Is the Southern stargazer edible?
The Southern 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 Astroscopus
More from the family Uranoscopidae
Want the complete picture on the Southern stargazer?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Southern stargazer is one of 12,519 species in the app.