atlantic stargazer

Scientific name Uranoscopus scaber
Descriptor Linnaeus
Year of description 1758
IUCN category LC
Family Uranoscopidae
Genus Uranoscopus
Uranoscopus scaber Uranoscopus scaber

Introduction

Uranoscopus scaber, commonly known as atlantic stargazer, is a salt water fish.

Who is it?

Morphology

  • Average size
    22 cm
  • Maximum size
    35 cm
  • Longevity
    6 year
  • Mimicry
    sand
  • Pattern
    mottling
  • Average size
    22 cm
  • Maximum size
    35 cm
  • Longevity
    6 year
  • Mimicry
    sand
  • Pattern
    mottling

How to recognize the atlantic stargazer ?

The atlantic stargazer measures around 22 cm. The females are more imposing and some specimens can reach 35 cm. This fish is bicolore with a predominantly marron and beige body. The also has marron mottling.

Sexual dimorphism

The female is bigger than the male.

Behaviour & Life cycle

  • diet
    carnivorous
  • Sociability
    solitary
  • territorial
    Yes
  • Way of living
    nocturnal

The atlantic stargazer is a fish solitary naturally found on the bottom. This species is carnivorous . This fish lives mainly at night. Usually, it leaves its hiding place and starts to be active once it gets dark.

This species is territorial and does not appreciate the presence of intruders nearby, especially animals with similar behavior. However, the atlantic stargazer has little concern for non-territorial animals.

Reproduction

  • Reproduction
    ovipare qui pond en eau libre

The atlantic stargazer is a fish ovipare qui pond en eau libre.

Risks for humans

  • Venomous
    Yes

This species is venomous and can cause serious injuries when touched.

Where to find it?

Where to see this species?

What is its habitat?

Natural environment characteristics

  • Depth
    15 - 400 m
  • Flow
    Slow

Biotope presentation

The atlantic stargazer is most often found at a depth between 15m and 400m. However, it is not impossible to find this species at other depths.

Species of the same biotope

To go further

To read on the web

Sources & Contributions

Participation & Validation

The Fishipedia team and specialist contributors are committed to providing high-quality content. However, although the information comes from scientific sources or testimonials from specialists, the cards may contain inaccuracies.

Benoit Chartrer

Benoit Chartrer

Aurélien Calas

Aurélien Calas

Translation

Translation done with the valuable contribution of our translators, who make this information available to a wider audience. We sincerely thank them for their commitment.

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Where to see this species?

Species of the same biotope

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