Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackfin snake eel (Ophichthus altipennis) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 120 cm.
Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Fiji, Tahiti, French Polynesia, Guam and others
Description
The blackfin snake eel is a snake eel (Ophichthidae) from coastal and reef-lagoon water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 1.2 metres and has an elongate, snake-shaped, yellow-brown body with a pointed tail tip with which it burrows backwards into sand, and black-edged fins. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it lies buried by day, sometimes with only the head showing, and hunts small fish and crustaceans at night. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackfin snake eel?
The Blackfin snake eel has a snake-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Blackfin snake eel live?
The Blackfin snake eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Fiji, Tahiti, French Polynesia, Guam and others
How big does the Blackfin snake eel get?
The Blackfin snake eel grows to a maximum of about 120 cm.
Is the Blackfin snake eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackfin 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 Blackfin snake eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackfin snake eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.