Fin's Fish Guide
The Armless snake eel (Dalophis imberbis) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 150 cm.
Description
The armless snake eel is a snake eel from the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean, ranging from Spain to Mauritania. It grows to about 150 cm and has an extremely elongate, snake-like body with a pointed tail and strongly reduced or absent pectoral fins, from which it takes its name. A bottom-dweller, it burrows in sand and mud between about 20 and 80 metres depth. It is a carnivore that feeds on small bottom animals. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Armless snake eel?
The Armless snake eel has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Snake-like body without pectoral fins; buries itself in sand and mud
Where does the Armless snake eel live?
The Armless snake eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea
How big does the Armless snake eel get?
The Armless snake eel grows to a maximum of about 150 cm.
Is the Armless snake eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Armless snake eel is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Armless snake eel edible?
The Armless snake eel is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Armless snake eel and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Dalophis
More from the family Ophichthidae
Want the complete picture on the Armless snake eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Armless snake eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.