STARGAZER

Family: URANOSCOPIDAE

The Stargazer is a Benthic species spending most of it's time buried in the substrate (sand or mud) with only its mouth and eyes visible. In addition to the venomous spine behind the gill cover the stargazer can also deliver an electric shock, the effect of which is greater out of the water. The electric organ is situated behind each eye.

The other form of defence the stargazer processes is camouflage and is perfectly coloured to match its surrounding environment. The fish also uses a lure and its camouflage to entice unsuspecting prey fish into it open mouth. The small appendage on the bottom lip can be made to quiver as an added attractant to its prey.

Breeds in the spring and summer. The eggs are free-floating.

Star Gazer

Uranoscopus scaber

(Jon Kenfield)

SHAPE: Elongate and rounded body with a laterally flattened head with rough bony plates. The eyes are very small and set on the top. On the tip of the lower jaw is a small appendage. The very sharp venomous spines are behind the gill cover.

COLOUR: Dull brown, darker above and light below.

DISTRIBUTION: Mediterranean, eastern Atlantic from Spain to Senegal.

SIZE: Up to 25 cm, rarely 30cm.

More to come keep an eye on this section.......