Family: Stargazers - Uranoscopidae
IDENTIFICATION: Varying sizes and shapes of white blotches on head and body, being circular to elongated ovals which maybe arranged into starburst patterns (Similar Northern Stargazer, A. Guttatus has round white spots on head becoming larger on sides and rear body). The pectoral fins are dark with wide white margins, with the upper main body in shades of brown to black and white below. Their mouths are upturned, almost vertical.
Diver Interaction:
Adviseable not to touch these fish as they can deliver an electric shock from area behind eyes. They move only when molested.
Habitat & Lifestyle:
By Vibrating their bodies they can bury rapidly in the sand, and like sand, silt and rock-rubble bottoms.
Global Distribution:
Uncommon Florida, Gulf of Mexico to Yucatan. Not reported Bahamas or Caribbean Islands. Central and South American coast to Utila and Cayos, Venezuela.
Unique Physique:
1. Three dark stripes on tail. 2. Centre stripe fades as it extends forward across base of tail and onto rear body. 3. Two black bars on second dorsal fin.
Abundance:
Uncommon – Sightings are unusual