Fin's Fish Guide
The Henshaw's snake eel (Phyllophichthus xenodontus) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 42 cm.
Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Christmas I., Marquesas Is., French Polynesia, Indonesia and others
Description
Henshaw's snake eel is a snake eel (Ophichthidae) from shallow sand and coral-rubble water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a very slender, snake-like, pale body with a pointed, hard tail with which it burrows backwards into soft sediment. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it lies hidden by day with only the head showing and snaps at small fish, shrimp and crustaceans. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Henshaw's snake eel?
The Henshaw's snake eel has a snake-like body and is mainly white.
Where does the Henshaw's snake eel live?
The Henshaw's snake eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Christmas I., Marquesas Is., French Polynesia, Indonesia and others
How big does the Henshaw's snake eel get?
The Henshaw's snake eel grows to a maximum of about 42 cm.
Is the Henshaw's snake eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Henshaw's 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.
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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 Henshaw's snake eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Henshaw's snake eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.