AboutStar Rating:FishBaseEOLGemfishStarry Smooth-houndimage from Wikipedia CommonsThe Starry smooth-hound is a houind shark with the star-like markings on its skin which results in this very descriptive name of the species.Mustelus asteriasImage licence CC BY 2. Named for a series of unique markings that run down its back, this shark actually get the popular name from what looks like constellations.
A Benthic Dweller
A benthic species, the starry smooth-hound spends most of its time lying on the sea floor, usually partially buried in sand or mud. Its flattened body and wing-like pectoral fins also help it swim smoothly down to the seafloor. This lifestyle is adapted for hunting of its prey items, consisting mainly on crustaceans but also molluscs and small fish.
A Gentle Giant
The starry smooth-hound appears to be an intimidating species, but it is actually not at all temperamental. Harmless to humans and frequently seen by divers snorkelling. Its slow movement and non-aggression have always made it a favorite for underwater photography.
Conservation Concerns
Although the starry smooth-hound is not presently listed as endangered, it does face threats such as overfishing by humans and habitat degradation or pollution. For example, their habitat can be damaged by the destructive practice of bottom trawling and contemporary fisheries directly target these fish. In addition, climate change and pollution can only contribute to a quicker death.
Conservation Efforts
Several conservation measures are in place to help protect the starry smooth-hound and other marine species such as :
Marine Protected Areas (MPAs): Designating certain areas as marine protected areas to protect critical habitat and limit human activity.
Sustainable Fishing Practices- encouraging the adoption of sustainable fishing practices such selective gear and reduced landing allowances to reduce or eliminate bycatch while also protecting marine habitats.
Habitat Restoration – Works to provide marine species with such shelter and food by restoring seagrass beds, coral reefs or other degraded habitats.
Public Outreach: Teaching the public about marine conservation and what threatens marine species.Learning about the ecological niche of starry smooth-hound in such detail and understand its challenges, we can all act together conserving this interesting little species with reasonable distribution. By practising good fishing habits, conserving its habitat and raising public awareness we can help protect the starry smooth-hound for generations to come.