by Erin Loury, Ichthyology Lab

It might not be one of the the shiniest stars of the deep sea, but the stargazer fish certainly has some unique adaptations.  With eyes on top of its head (the source of that romantic name) and an upturned mouth, the stargazer can bury itself in the sand where it is perfectly poised to snatch an unsuspecting meal swimming by.  And don’t get too dreamy-eyed if you ever try to handle one – those spines behind the head have venom that can pack a sting.  This fish is more on guerrilla tactics than moonlit strolls!