Fin's Fish Guide
The Conger eel (Paraconger caudilimbatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Congridae that grows up to 51 cm.
Western Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico; neritic waters of the continental shelf.
Description
The margintail conger is a conger eel of the family Congridae from the western Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico. The species grows to about 51 cm and has an elongate, snake-like, grey-brown body with a dark margin along the fins and tail tip, to which the name refers. It lives in neritic waters of the continental shelf, often buried in sand or mud bottoms with only the head protruding. As a nocturnal bottom hunter it feeds on small fishes, crustaceans and worms. Unlike morays it is not aggressive. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Conger eel?
The Conger eel has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Snake-like body with a dark fin margin; buries itself in sandy and muddy bottoms.
Where does the Conger eel live?
The Conger eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico; neritic waters of the continental shelf.
How big does the Conger eel get?
The Conger eel grows to a maximum of about 51 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Conger eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Conger eel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Conger eel edible?
The Conger eel is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Conger eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Conger eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Paraconger
More from the family Congridae
Want the complete picture on the Conger eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Conger eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.