Sand Stargazer
Dactyloscopus tridigitatus
- Group: Other
- Typical depth: 0–29 m
- Max size: 9 cm
- For divers: safe
- IUCN status: LC
This tiny fish buries itself in soft sand with only its eyes, nostrils and mouth left poking above the surface, where it waits in the shallow surf for prey to pass. The upward facing eyes give the stargazers their name. At under ten centimetres it is easy to miss entirely.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Blenniiformes › Dactyloscopidae › Dactyloscopus
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 276406.
FAQ
- How deep does the Sand Stargazer live?
- The Sand Stargazer (Dactyloscopus tridigitatus) is typically found at 0–29 m.
- Is the Sand Stargazer dangerous to divers?
- The Sand Stargazer is harmless to divers.
- How big does the Sand Stargazer get?
- The Sand Stargazer grows to about 9 cm.