Fin's Fish Guide
The Chilean worm eel (Scolecenchelys chilensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 28 cm.
Description
The Chilean worm eel is a snake eel (Ophichthidae) from shallow sandy and coastal water of the southeast Pacific off Chile. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a very slender, worm-like, pale body with a small head and a pointed tail with which it burrows backwards into the bottom. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it lies hidden in sand by day and searches for small invertebrates and small fish at night. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chilean worm eel?
The Chilean worm eel has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly white.
Where does the Chilean worm eel live?
The Chilean worm eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Juan Fernández, Desventuradas Is
How big does the Chilean worm eel get?
The Chilean worm eel grows to a maximum of about 28 cm.
Is the Chilean worm eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Chilean worm eel is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Scolecenchelys
More from the family Ophichthidae
Want the complete picture on the Chilean worm eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chilean worm eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.