Fin's Fish Guide
The Leaden worm eel (Myrophis plumbeus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 47 cm.
Description
The speckled worm eel is a snake eel (Ophichthidae) from the western Atlantic Ocean. The species has a very elongate, thin, worm-like body with fine dark speckles and small eyes, adapted to a burrowing life. It burrows in mud or sand in shallow bays and estuaries and enters brackish and fresh water. On and near the bottom it feeds on small invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Leaden worm eel?
The Leaden worm eel has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Slender, worm-shaped body with fine speckles; burrows into soft bottoms of bays and estuaries.
Where does the Leaden worm eel live?
The Leaden worm eel lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic; shallow bays, estuaries, brackish and fresh water.
How big does the Leaden worm eel get?
The Leaden worm eel grows to a maximum of about 47 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Leaden worm eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Leaden worm eel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Leaden worm eel edible?
The Leaden worm eel is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Myrophis
More from the family Ophichthidae
Want the complete picture on the Leaden worm eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Leaden worm eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.