Fin's Fish Guide
The Ditch snake eel (Herpetoichthys fossatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 55 cm.
Description
The ditch snake eel is a snake eel (Ophichthidae) from shallow sand and estuarine water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a very slender, eel-like, pale body with a pointed, hard tail tip with which it burrows backwards into the bottom. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it lives largely buried and snaps at small crustaceans, worms and small fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ditch snake eel?
The Ditch snake eel has a snake-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Ditch snake eel live?
The Ditch snake eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Mexico
How big does the Ditch snake eel get?
The Ditch snake eel grows to a maximum of about 55 cm.
Is the Ditch snake eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Ditch snake 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
More from the family Ophichthidae
Want the complete picture on the Ditch snake eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ditch snake eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.