Fin's Fish Guide
The African mottled eel (Anguilla labiata) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Anguillidae that grows up to 175 cm.
East and southern Africa; rivers and lakes, spawns in the Indian Ocean.
Description
The African mottled eel is a large freshwater eel of the family Anguillidae from East and southern Africa. The species can reach about 175 cm and has an elongate, snake-like body with a mottled, dark-spotted back. It is a catadromous species: adults migrate to the sea to spawn, while young eels move up rivers, feeding along the way on invertebrates on rocks and logs washed by fast-moving water. The eel is a nocturnal predator and a valued food and angling fish. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African mottled eel?
The African mottled eel has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Catadromous eel that migrates to the sea to spawn; marbled, darkly blotched back.
Where does the African mottled eel live?
The African mottled eel lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. East and southern Africa; rivers and lakes, spawns in the Indian Ocean.
How big does the African mottled eel get?
The African mottled eel grows to a maximum of about 175 cm.
Is the African mottled eel dangerous to humans?
No, the African mottled eel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the African mottled eel edible?
Yes, the African mottled eel is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Anguilla
More from the family Anguillidae
Want the complete picture on the African mottled eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African mottled eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.