Fish Id: A Guide To East Coast Fishes

Stargazer (Astroscopus guttatus)

The Northern Stargazer, ranges from N.Carolina to New York. The dark body and head are covered with small spots. Average size is about 12" or smaller. As you can see, the front part of the dorsal fin is short and spiny, the back dorsal much longer. It has a large, upturned mouth. A sandy-bottom fish, it's eyes are located on the top of the head, close to the mouth. Just behind the eyes, also on the top of the head, is an area that produces an electric shock (used for hunting/defense).
Handle with care, but the flesh is Edible!

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