Fin's Fish Guide
The Bigfin snake eel (Ophichthus macrochir) is a brackish-water fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 92 cm.
Asia: Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Indonesia, Philippines, Viet Nam, Thailand
Description
The Bigfin snake eel is a snake eel (Ophichthidae) from shallow sand and mud water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a very slender, snake-like body with a pointed, hard tail with which it burrows backwards into soft sediment. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it lies hidden by day with only the head showing and snaps at small fish and crustaceans. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bigfin snake eel?
The Bigfin snake eel has a snake-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Bigfin snake eel live?
The Bigfin snake eel lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Indonesia, Philippines, Viet Nam, Thailand
How big does the Bigfin snake eel get?
The Bigfin snake eel grows to a maximum of about 92 cm.
Is the Bigfin snake eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Bigfin 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ophichthus
More from the family Ophichthidae
Want the complete picture on the Bigfin snake eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bigfin snake eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.