Come identificare Stargazer

Per identificare Stargazer (Uranoscopus scaber), osserva queste caratteristiche chiave.

Caratteristiche fisiche

Forma del corpo

flat

Colorazione

Dorsal surface is typically brownish or grayish, often mottled with darker spots and irregular bands, providing excellent camouflage against sandy or muddy substrates. The ventral side is paler, whitish. The pectoral fins may have dark bands.

Tipo di squame

none

Posizione della bocca

superior

Caratteristiche distintive

Large, upward-facing eyes positioned on top of the head., Large, wide mouth angled upwards., Two venomous spines located behind the operculum (gill cover) and one on each pectoral fin., A fleshy, worm-like appendage (illicium) on the lower jaw, used as a lure., Ability to produce electric discharges (though weaker than true electric fish).

Pinna dorsale

Two dorsal fins: the first is short with 3-4 strong, venomous spines; the second is long with 13-15 soft rays. The first dorsal fin is often dark or black.

Pinna caudale

Truncate to slightly rounded caudal fin.

Pinna pettorale

Large, fan-like pectoral fins with 15-18 rays, often used for burrowing.

Pinne distintive

Pelvic fins are jugular (located anterior to the pectoral fins) with 1 spine and 5 soft rays.

Consigli per l'identificazione

1. 1

   Eyes

   Positioned dorsally on the head, looking directly upwards, which is a key distinguishing feature among benthic fish.

2. 2

   Mouth

   Large, wide, and angled upwards, equipped with a fleshy lure on the lower jaw.

3. 3

   Body Shape

   Dorso-ventrally flattened body, allowing it to effectively bury itself in the substrate.

4. 4

   Coloration

   Mottled brown/gray dorsal coloration for camouflage, contrasting with a pale ventral side.

5. 5

   Venomous Spines

   Presence of two strong, grooved spines behind the operculum and one on each pectoral fin, which are associated with venom glands. The first dorsal fin also has venomous spines.

Esplora Stargazer