Fin's Fish Guide
The Blacksaddle snake eel (Callechelys catostoma) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 85 cm.
Oceania: Australia, Cocos Is. (Keel), Cook Is., French Polynesia, Guam, India and others
Description
The Blacksaddle snake eel is a snake eel (Ophichthidae) from shallow sand and estuarine water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species has an elongate, eel-like, pale body with a pointed, hard tail tip with which it burrows backwards into the bottom. As a bottom-dweller it lives largely buried, sometimes projecting its head, and snaps at small fish, crustaceans and worms. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blacksaddle snake eel?
The Blacksaddle snake eel has a snake-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Blacksaddle snake eel live?
The Blacksaddle snake eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Australia, Cocos Is. (Keel), Cook Is., French Polynesia, Guam, India and others
How big does the Blacksaddle snake eel get?
The Blacksaddle snake eel grows to a maximum of about 85 cm.
Is the Blacksaddle snake eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Blacksaddle 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Callechelys
More from the family Ophichthidae
Want the complete picture on the Blacksaddle snake eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blacksaddle snake eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.