Fin's Fish Guide
The Indian mottled eel (Anguilla bengalensis) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Anguillidae that grows up to 200 cm.
Asia: Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, India, Indonesia, Kenya and others
Description
The Indian mottled eel is a migratory eel (Anguillidae) from fresh, brackish and coastal water of South Asia and East Africa. The species grows to about 2 metres and has an elongate, snake-shaped body with a yellow-brown mottled pattern and a long, continuous fin margin. It grows up for years in rivers and lakes and migrates to the open ocean to spawn, where it dies; the larvae return with the currents. As a nocturnal predator it eats fish, crustaceans and worms. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Indian mottled eel?
The Indian mottled eel has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern.
Where does the Indian mottled eel live?
The Indian mottled eel lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Asia: Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, India, Indonesia, Kenya and others
How big does the Indian mottled eel get?
The Indian mottled eel grows to a maximum of about 200 cm. On average the species is around 80 cm.
Is the Indian mottled eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Indian mottled 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.
Is the Indian mottled eel edible?
Yes, the Indian mottled eel is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Anguilla
More from the family Anguillidae
Want the complete picture on the Indian mottled eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Indian mottled eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.