The Blotched snake eel (Callechelys muraena) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Description
The blotched snake eel is a snake eel (Ophichthidae) from coastal waters of the eastern Atlantic, off West Africa. The species grows to about 60 cm and has a slender, yellowish, fin-poor body with numerous dark blotches and a pointed, hard tail tip. As a bottom-dweller it burrows tail-first into sand and mud bottoms 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 Blotched snake eel?
The Blotched snake eel has a snake-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Blotched snake eel live?
The Blotched snake eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Blotched snake eel get?
The Blotched snake eel grows to a maximum of about 60 cm.
Is the Blotched snake eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Blotched snake eel is harmless to humans.
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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
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