The Freckled stargazer (Xenocephalus egregius) is a saltwater fish of the family Uranoscopidae that grows up to 33 cm.
Description
The freckled stargazer is a stargazer from the western Atlantic, from Georgia and the Florida Keys to the Gulf of Mexico and southern Texas. The species grows to about 33 cm and has the upward-directed eyes and mouth on top of a flattened head characteristic of stargazers, with a freckled pattern. Adults live on deeper shelf bottoms between about 180 and 440 metres, while young occur shallower. Unlike some relatives this species has no venom or electric organ. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Freckled stargazer?
The Freckled stargazer has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Freckled stargazer live?
The Freckled stargazer lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Freckled stargazer get?
The Freckled stargazer grows to a maximum of about 33 cm.
Is the Freckled stargazer dangerous to humans?
No, the Freckled stargazer is harmless to humans.
Is the Freckled stargazer edible?
The Freckled stargazer is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Xenocephalus
More from the family Uranoscopidae
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