Fin's Fish Guide
The Guinean snake eel (Callechelys guineensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 108 cm.
North America: Antigua Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Virgin Is. (UK), Cape Verde, Dominica and others
Description
The Guinean snake eel is a snake eel (Ophichthidae) from shallow sand and estuarine water of the eastern Atlantic, off West Africa. The species has an elongate, eel-like, pale body with a pointed, hard tail tip with which it burrows backwards into the bottom. As a bottom-dweller it lives largely buried, sometimes projecting its head, and snaps at small fish, crustaceans and worms. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Guinean snake eel?
The Guinean snake eel has a snake-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Guinean snake eel live?
The Guinean snake eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Antigua Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Virgin Is. (UK), Cape Verde, Dominica and others
How big does the Guinean snake eel get?
The Guinean snake eel grows to a maximum of about 108 cm.
Is the Guinean snake eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Guinean 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 Callechelys
More from the family Ophichthidae
Want the complete picture on the Guinean snake eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Guinean snake eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.