Fin's Fish Guide
The Whitesaddle stargazer (Dactyloscopus pectoralis) is a saltwater fish of the family Dactyloscopidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The Whitesaddle stargazer is a sand stargazer (Dactyloscopidae) from shallow, clear sandy water of the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a slender, sandy body with eyes set high on the head and an upward-slanted mouth. As a bottom-dweller it buries almost entirely in loose sand, with only the eyes showing, and snaps from that ambush at small crustaceans and small fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Whitesaddle stargazer?
The Whitesaddle stargazer has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Eyes set high on the head; buries itself in the sand up to the eyes and pounces on prey swimming past.
Where does the Whitesaddle stargazer live?
The Whitesaddle stargazer lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific; sandy bottoms near reefs.
How big does the Whitesaddle stargazer get?
The Whitesaddle stargazer grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Whitesaddle stargazer dangerous to humans?
No, the Whitesaddle stargazer is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Whitesaddle stargazer edible?
The Whitesaddle 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 Whitesaddle stargazer?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Whitesaddle stargazer is one of 12,519 species in the app.