Fin's Fish Guide
The Cape conger (Conger wilsoni) is a brackish-water fish of the family Congridae that grows up to 150 cm.
Description
The eastern conger is a conger eel (Congridae) from the temperate coastal waters of Australia. The species has an elongate, scaleless, eel-like body with continuous dorsal and anal fins merging with the tail. It inhabits coastal waters and estuaries and is demersal on rocky reefs, where by day it shelters in crevices and holes. As a nocturnal bottom predator it hunts fishes and crustaceans. Its flesh is highly esteemed. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cape conger?
The Cape conger has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Eel-like nocturnal predator that shelters in reef crevices during the day; flesh highly valued.
Where does the Cape conger live?
The Cape conger lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Temperate coastal waters of Australia; rocky reefs and estuaries.
How big does the Cape conger get?
The Cape conger grows to a maximum of about 150 cm.
Is the Cape conger dangerous to humans?
The Cape conger can cause injury; handle it with care. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Cape conger edible?
Yes, the Cape conger is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Conger
More from the family Congridae
Want the complete picture on the Cape conger?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cape conger is one of 12,519 species in the app.