Fin's Fish Guide
The Brown Garden Eel (Heteroconger longissimus) is a saltwater fish of the family Congridae that grows up to 51 cm.
Description
The brown garden eel is a garden eel (Congridae) from the Atlantic Ocean. The species has a very elongate, thin, worm-like body and lives in colonies in self-dug vertical burrows in sand bottoms. The rear body stays in the burrow while the front body protrudes into the current; when threatened it quickly withdraws. It feeds on zooplankton and detritus drifting with the current. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Brown Garden Eel?
The Brown Garden Eel has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Lives in colonies in vertical sand burrows; extends the front of its body into the current to catch plankton.
Where does the Brown Garden Eel live?
The Brown Garden Eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Atlantic Ocean; sandy bottoms, in colonies.
How big does the Brown Garden Eel get?
The Brown Garden Eel grows to a maximum of about 51 cm.
Is the Brown Garden Eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Brown Garden Eel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Brown Garden Eel edible?
The Brown Garden Eel is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Heteroconger
More from the family Congridae
Want the complete picture on the Brown Garden Eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Brown Garden Eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.