The Blackbanded stargazer (Uranoscopus bicinctus) is a saltwater fish of the family Uranoscopidae that grows up to 30 cm.
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Description
The stargazer is a stargazer (Uranoscopidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has a stocky body with a large, armoured head and upward-directed eyes and mouth, with two dark bands across the body. Half-buried in sandy gravel bottoms it peers upward and snaps up passing prey. Behind the head it carries venomous spines and on top of the head an electric organ that can deliver a shock. Both make it dangerous to handle.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackbanded stargazer?
The Blackbanded stargazer has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Half-buried lurking fish with upward-facing eyes; venomous spines and an electric organ.
Where does the Blackbanded stargazer live?
The Blackbanded stargazer lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; sandy gravel bottoms of coastal waters.
How big does the Blackbanded stargazer get?
The Blackbanded stargazer grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Blackbanded stargazer dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackbanded stargazer is harmless to humans. Not poisonous to eat, but this fish has venomous spines behind the head and can deliver a shock with an electric organ. Handle with great care; treat a sting with hot water (about 45 degrees C) and seek medical care for symptoms.
Is the Blackbanded stargazer edible?
The Blackbanded 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 Uranoscopus
More from the family Uranoscopidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackbanded stargazer?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackbanded stargazer is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone