Fin's Fish Guide
The Charmed snake-eel (Ophichthus zophochir) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 98 cm.
Description
The yellow snake eel is a snake eel of the family Ophichthidae from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 98 cm and has an elongate, yellow-brown, snake-like body with a hard, pointed tail. It inhabits rocky and sandy areas and is a burrowing species that buries itself largely in the bottom, with only the head protruding. As a bottom hunter it feeds on clams and fishes. Unlike morays a snake eel has a relatively small mouth and is not aggressive. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Charmed snake-eel?
The Charmed snake-eel has a snake-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a plain pattern. Yellow-brown snake eel with a hard, pointed tail; buries itself largely in the bottom.
Where does the Charmed snake-eel live?
The Charmed snake-eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific; rocky and sandy areas, largely buried.
How big does the Charmed snake-eel get?
The Charmed snake-eel grows to a maximum of about 98 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Charmed snake-eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Charmed snake-eel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Charmed snake-eel edible?
The Charmed snake-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 Ophichthus
More from the family Ophichthidae
Want the complete picture on the Charmed snake-eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Charmed snake-eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.