Fin's Fish Guide
The Erabu snake eel (Ophichthus erabo) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 72 cm.
Description
The Erabu snake eel is a snake eel (Ophichthidae) from shallow sand and estuarine water of the northwest Pacific, off East Asia. The species grows to about 50 cm and has a 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 Erabu snake eel?
The Erabu snake eel has a snake-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Erabu snake eel live?
The Erabu snake eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Japan, Ryukyu Is., South Africa, Ogasawara Is.
How big does the Erabu snake eel get?
The Erabu snake eel grows to a maximum of about 72 cm.
Is the Erabu snake eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Erabu 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
Same genus Ophichthus
More from the family Ophichthidae
Want the complete picture on the Erabu snake eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Erabu snake eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.