Fin's Fish Guide
The Black-neck snake eel (Ophichthus cephalozona) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 115 cm.
Description
The blacksaddle snake eel is a snake eel from the Indo-Pacific, ranging from Myanmar to the Society Islands. The species grows to about 115 cm and has a very elongate, almost white body with a dark snout and dark markings on the head and shoulder. As a burrowing bottom-dweller it stays in sand and mud bottoms of shallow coastal water and emerges at night to hunt; the hard, pointed tail tip helps it burrow backwards. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black-neck snake eel?
The Black-neck snake eel has a snake-like body, is mainly white and shows a plain pattern. Very elongated body with a dark shoulder; hard pointed tail tip for burrowing backwards
Where does the Black-neck snake eel live?
The Black-neck snake eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific
How big does the Black-neck snake eel get?
The Black-neck snake eel grows to a maximum of about 115 cm.
Is the Black-neck snake eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Black-neck 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 Black-neck snake eel edible?
The Black-neck snake eel is not usually eaten.
More photos
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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 Black-neck snake eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black-neck snake eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.