Fin's Fish Guide
The Fangtooth snake eel (Aplatophis chauliodus) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 84 cm.
North America: Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, French Guiana, Guyana, Mexico and others
Description
The fangtooth snake eel is a snake eel (Ophichthidae) from coastal and estuarine water of the western Atlantic. The species grows to about 84 cm and has an elongate, snake-shaped body with a large mouth full of long, needle-sharp teeth. As a burrowing bottom-dweller it lies buried in soft mud of shallow coastal water by day, sometimes with only the toothed head showing, and seizes passing small fish and crustaceans at night. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Fangtooth snake eel?
The Fangtooth snake eel has a snake-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Fangtooth snake eel live?
The Fangtooth snake eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, French Guiana, Guyana, Mexico and others
How big does the Fangtooth snake eel get?
The Fangtooth snake eel grows to a maximum of about 84 cm.
Is the Fangtooth snake eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Fangtooth 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.
Want the complete picture on the Fangtooth snake eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fangtooth snake 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 Aplatophis
More from the family Ophichthidae
Want the complete picture on the Fangtooth snake eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fangtooth snake eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.