Fin's Fish Guide
The Narrowfin snake eel (Cirrhimuraena tapeinoptera) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The narrowfin snake eel is a snake eel (Ophichthidae) from shallow coastal and estuarine water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a very slender, eel-like, pale-brown body with a pointed, hard tail tip with which it burrows backwards into the bottom. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it lives largely buried in sand and mud bottoms and snaps at small crustaceans and worms. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Narrowfin snake eel?
The Narrowfin snake eel has a snake-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Narrowfin snake eel live?
The Narrowfin snake eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Indonesia
How big does the Narrowfin snake eel get?
The Narrowfin snake eel grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Narrowfin snake eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Narrowfin 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 Cirrhimuraena
More from the family Ophichthidae
Want the complete picture on the Narrowfin snake eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Narrowfin snake eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.