Fin's Fish Guide
The Broadnose worm eel (Myrophis platyrhynchus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 21 cm.
Description
The broadnose worm eel is a snake eel (Ophichthidae) from the western Atlantic Ocean. The species has an elongate, thin, worm-like body with a fairly broad, rounded snout and small eyes, adapted to a burrowing life. It inhabits tidal creeks and protected to semi-protected bays, and avoids the surf zone. It burrows into soft bottoms and searches for small bottom invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Broadnose worm eel?
The Broadnose worm eel has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Slender, worm-shaped body with a broad snout; burrows into soft bottoms of tidal creeks.
Where does the Broadnose worm eel live?
The Broadnose worm eel lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic; tidal creeks and sheltered bays.
How big does the Broadnose worm eel get?
The Broadnose worm eel grows to a maximum of about 21 cm.
Is the Broadnose worm eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Broadnose worm eel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Broadnose worm eel edible?
The Broadnose worm eel is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Broadnose worm eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Broadnose worm 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 Myrophis
More from the family Ophichthidae
Want the complete picture on the Broadnose worm eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Broadnose worm eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.