Fin's Fish Guide
The Speckled stargazer (Kathetostoma canaster) is a saltwater fish of the family Uranoscopidae that grows up to 65 cm.
Description
The speckled stargazer is a stargazer (Uranoscopidae) from the temperate coastal waters of southern Australia. The species has a stocky, speckled body with a large, cube-shaped head and upward-pointing eyes and mouth, adapted to lying in wait largely buried in the bottom. From the sand it ambushes passing fishes and crustaceans. Behind the gill covers it bears two large, venomous spines. The puncture wound is extremely painful; treat a sting with hot water and seek medical help if symptoms occur.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Speckled stargazer?
The Speckled stargazer has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Cube-shaped head with upward-facing eyes; lies buried and has two venomous shoulder spines.
Where does the Speckled stargazer live?
The Speckled stargazer lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Temperate coastal waters of southern Australia; sandy bottoms.
How big does the Speckled stargazer get?
The Speckled stargazer grows to a maximum of about 65 cm.
Is the Speckled stargazer dangerous to humans?
No, the Speckled stargazer is harmless to humans. The spines are venomous and give a painful, burning puncture wound. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) and seek medical care if pain or infection persists.
Is the Speckled stargazer edible?
The Speckled stargazer is rarely 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 Speckled stargazer?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Speckled stargazer is one of 12,519 species in the app.