Fin's Fish Guide
The Common shore eel (Alabes dorsalis) is a saltwater fish of the family Gobiesocidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The common shore eel is a peculiar, eel-shaped clingfish (Gobiesocidae, subfamily Alabetinae) from coastal waters of southern Australia. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a very slender, scaleless, eel-like body with strongly reduced fins and a small ventral sucking disc. As a bottom-dweller it lives in tide pools and among seaweed and seagrass of rocky shores and snaps at small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Common shore eel?
The Common shore eel has a snake-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Common shore eel live?
The Common shore eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Australia
How big does the Common shore eel get?
The Common shore eel grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Common shore eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Common shore 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Alabes
More from the family Gobiesocidae
Want the complete picture on the Common shore eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Common shore eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.