Fin's Fish Guide
The Marbled snake eel (Callechelys marmorata) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 87 cm.
Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Fiji, Tahiti and others
Description
The marbled snake eel is a snake eel (Ophichthidae) from coastal and reef-lagoon water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 87 cm and has a very slender, snake-shaped, pale-yellow body with numerous dark spots and strongly reduced fins. As a burrowing bottom-dweller it lies buried in soft sand by day, sometimes with only the head showing, and hunts small fish and crustaceans at night. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Marbled snake eel?
The Marbled snake eel has a snake-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Marbled snake eel live?
The Marbled snake eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Fiji, Tahiti and others
How big does the Marbled snake eel get?
The Marbled snake eel grows to a maximum of about 87 cm.
Is the Marbled snake eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Marbled 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
Same genus Callechelys
More from the family Ophichthidae
Want the complete picture on the Marbled snake eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Marbled snake eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.