Fin's Fish Guide
The Common pike conger (Muraenesox bagio) is a brackish-water fish of the family Muraenesocidae that grows up to 200 cm.
Asia: Australia, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei and others
Description
The common pike conger is a large pike conger (Muraenesocidae) from coastal, brackish and estuarine water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 2 metres and has an elongate, snake-shaped, brownish body with a large head and powerful jaws full of sharp, backward-pointing teeth. As a nocturnal predator it hunts fish, crustaceans and squid in turbid coastal and estuarine water. It is a food fish, but the biting jaws can inflict serious injuries; handle with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Common pike conger?
The Common pike conger has a snake-like body and is mainly brown. Can bite with sharp teeth or powerful jaws; handle with care.
Where does the Common pike conger live?
The Common pike conger lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Australia, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei and others
How big does the Common pike conger get?
The Common pike conger grows to a maximum of about 200 cm. On average the species is around 150 cm.
Is the Common pike conger dangerous to humans?
The Common pike conger can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. This large eel-like predator has powerful jaws with sharp teeth. Do not grab it by hand. For a bite: rinse thoroughly with clean water, apply firm pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing; because of infection risk always seek medical assessment and check tetanus status.
Is the Common pike conger edible?
Yes, the Common pike conger is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Muraenesox
More from the family Muraenesocidae
Want the complete picture on the Common pike conger?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Common pike conger is one of 12,519 species in the app.