Fin's Fish Guide
The Dark-spotted snake eel (Myrichthys ocellatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 110 cm.
Western Atlantic and Caribbean; rocky and coral-rich areas and seagrass beds.
Description
The goldspotted eel is a snake eel of the family Ophichthidae from the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 110 cm and has an elongate, snake-like, pale body studded with large, golden-yellow, dark-edged spots. It is common near islands and in rocky or coral areas and seagrass beds, where it burrows into the sand with its hard, pointed tail. As a bottom hunter it searches, mainly by day, for small crustaceans and fishes. Unlike morays the 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 Dark-spotted snake eel?
The Dark-spotted snake eel has a snake-like body, is mainly white and shows a spots pattern. Golden-yellow, dark-edged blotches; burrows into the sand with its hard, pointed tail.
Where does the Dark-spotted snake eel live?
The Dark-spotted snake eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean; rocky and coral-rich areas and seagrass beds.
How big does the Dark-spotted snake eel get?
The Dark-spotted snake eel grows to a maximum of about 110 cm.
Is the Dark-spotted snake eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Dark-spotted snake eel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Dark-spotted snake eel edible?
The Dark-spotted snake eel is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Myrichthys
More from the family Ophichthidae
Want the complete picture on the Dark-spotted snake eel?
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