Fin's Fish Guide
The Blunt-toothed snake eel (Pisodonophis daspilotus) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 68 cm.
Description
The blunt-toothed snake eel is a snake eel (Ophichthidae) from the eastern Pacific, from Costa Rica to Ecuador. The species reaches about 68 cm and has an elongate, snake-like body and, unlike many snake eels, blunt grinding teeth with which it can crush hard-shelled prey. It inhabits sand and mud bottoms of shallow waters and is often associated with mangroves. With its hard, pointed tail it burrows backwards into the bottom. Owing to its burrowing habits it is little noticed; the IUCN assesses the species as near threatened (NT).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blunt-toothed snake eel?
The Blunt-toothed snake eel has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Blunt grinding teeth to crack hard-shelled prey; burrows into sand and mud.
Where does the Blunt-toothed snake eel live?
The Blunt-toothed snake eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific, from Costa Rica to Ecuador.
How big does the Blunt-toothed snake eel get?
The Blunt-toothed snake eel grows to a maximum of about 68 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Blunt-toothed snake eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Blunt-toothed snake eel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blunt-toothed snake eel edible?
The Blunt-toothed snake eel is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Blunt-toothed snake eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blunt-toothed snake eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pisodonophis
More from the family Ophichthidae
Want the complete picture on the Blunt-toothed snake eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blunt-toothed snake eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.