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Flagfin Stargazer

Gillellus inescatus

Gillellus inescatus, the flagfin stargazer, is a species of tropical sand stargazer native to the Caribbean sea.

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From the article Gillellus inescatus on Wikipedia (CC BY-SA), quoted section by section

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Description

Based on the single known specimen, Gillellus inescatus can reach a length of 2.35 centimetres (0.93 in). Its body is elongate and compressed, primarily creamy-white, with eight reddish-brown saddles and blue chromatophores on the head. The esca-like structure is at the tip of the elongated spine on the first dorsal fin and is reddish brown. Williams describes G. inescatus as being similar to G. uranidea, G. healae, and G. jacksoni, with the esca being a noticeable distinguishing trait.

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Range & habitat

The full extent of the distribution of Gillellus inescatus is uncertain, as it is only known from the holotype specimen, found between Northwest Point and Lulu Bay, Navassa Island. This single specimen was collected from a depth range of 27 to 30 metres (89 to 98 ft).

== References ==

Wikipedia: “Distribution”

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In human culture

The specific epithet "inescatus" is derived from the Latin word "inescare" (to bait). It refers to the structure at the back of the head and front of the spine, shaped like an anglerfish's esca, which Williams theorizes may be used as bait for luring prey, in a style similar to anglerfish, or as a means to attract potential mates. The species' common name, "flagfin stargazer" refers to the structure's resemblance to a small flag atop the blenny's spine.

Wikipedia: “Etymology”

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Where it lives

Recorded sightings

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geo-referenced records in GBIF, from museums, herbaria and field observers.

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In the stacks

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Every page naming Gillellus inescatus in the Biodiversity Heritage Library →

This page is assembled live from iNaturalist, GBIF, Wikipedia, the Source Library and the Internet Archive. It is not yet part of the hand-edited codex. iNaturalist taxon 446038.