Fin's Fish Guide
The Stargazing stonefish (Trachicephalus uranoscopus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Synanceiidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Asia: China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and others
Description
The stargazing stonefish is a stonefish (Synanceiidae) from shallow coastal and estuarine water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a stocky body set with skin flaps and a steep head with an almost vertically upturned mouth and high-set eyes. As an ambush predator it lies buried on sand and mud bottoms and sucks in passing prey. The dorsal spines are venomous and can give a very painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Stargazing stonefish?
The Stargazing stonefish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Stargazing stonefish live?
The Stargazing stonefish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and others
How big does the Stargazing stonefish get?
The Stargazing stonefish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Stargazing stonefish dangerous to humans?
The Stargazing stonefish 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.
Is the Stargazing stonefish edible?
Yes, the Stargazing stonefish is commonly eaten.
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More from the family Synanceiidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Stargazing stonefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.