Fin's Fish Guide
The Longnosed snake eel (Ophisurus macrorhynchos) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 207 cm.
Description
The longnosed snake eel is a large snake eel (Ophichthidae) from shallow sand and mud water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 1.4 metres and has a very slender, eel-like, pale body with a strikingly long, pointed, beak-like snout and a hard tail tip with which it burrows into the bottom. As a bottom-dweller it lies largely buried and seizes passing small fish and crustaceans. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Longnosed snake eel?
The Longnosed snake eel has a snake-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Longnosed snake eel live?
The Longnosed snake eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: China, Japan, Korea (South)
How big does the Longnosed snake eel get?
The Longnosed snake eel grows to a maximum of about 207 cm. On average the species is around 60 cm.
Is the Longnosed snake eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Longnosed 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.
Is the Longnosed snake eel edible?
Yes, the Longnosed snake eel is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ophisurus
More from the family Ophichthidae
Want the complete picture on the Longnosed snake eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Longnosed snake eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.