Whitemargin stargazer fish
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Whitemargin stargazer fish
Whitemargin stargazer (Uranoscopus sulphureus). This fish usually lies almost completely covered in sand, with only its upward-looking eyes visible. In this position it waits for prey, mostly smaller fish, to approach before engulfing it with a rapid strike. Some of the muscles in its head have been adapted into an electric organ capable of delivering a shock of up to 50 Volts. This is used to stun nearby fish. It also has two poisonous spines behind its head to deter predators. These can deliver a painful, if not fatal, wound to humans. It inhabits sandy reef bottoms in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, and can reach 45 centimetres in length. Photographed in the Egyptian Red Sea
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Media ID 6459501
© GEORGETTE DOUWMA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Camouflage Camouflaged Egypt Electric Indo Pacific Poisonous Predator Red Sea Sea Bed Venomous Uranoscopus Sulphureus Whitemargin Stargazer
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the mysterious Whitemargin stargazer fish, known for its incredible ability to camouflage itself in sandy reef bottoms. With only its upward-looking eyes visible, this predator patiently waits for unsuspecting prey to approach before striking with lightning speed. Its unique adaptation includes muscles in its head transformed into an electric organ capable of delivering a shocking 50 Volts, stunning nearby fish and ensuring a successful hunt. But that's not all - this fascinating creature possesses two venomous spines behind its head as a defense mechanism against predators. These poisonous spines can inflict painful wounds on humans, making it clear that caution is necessary when encountering this mesmerizing species. Found in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, specifically photographed in the Egyptian Red Sea, the Whitemargin stargazer reaches an impressive length of up to 45 centimeters. Its presence adds depth and intrigue to marine biology studies as scientists continue to unravel the secrets hidden beneath our oceans. This awe-inspiring image from Science Photo Library showcases nature at its most intriguing and reminds us of the remarkable diversity found within our planet's ecosystems.
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