Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackspotted snake eel (Quassiremus ascensionis) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 71 cm.
North America: Antigua Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Brazil, Virgin Is. (UK) and others
Description
The blackspotted snake eel is a snake eel (Ophichthidae) from coastal waters of the Atlantic, around island groups. The species grows to about 71 cm and has a slender, yellowish, snake-shaped body with two rows of round black spots and a pointed, hard tail tip. As a bottom-dweller it burrows tail-first into sand and rubble bottoms near reefs and protrudes only its head to snap at small crustaceans and small fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackspotted snake eel?
The Blackspotted snake eel has a snake-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Blackspotted snake eel live?
The Blackspotted snake eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. North America: Antigua Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Brazil, Virgin Is. (UK) and others
How big does the Blackspotted snake eel get?
The Blackspotted snake eel grows to a maximum of about 71 cm.
Is the Blackspotted snake eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackspotted 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 Quassiremus
More from the family Ophichthidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackspotted snake eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackspotted snake eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.