The Slimy swamp eel (Ophisternon gutturale) is a brackish-water fish of the family Synbranchidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Description
The slimy swamp eel is a swamp eel (Synbranchidae) from shallow fresh and brackish water of northern Australia and New Guinea. The species grows to about 40 cm and has an elongate, eel-like, grey-brown body without pectoral fins and with a smooth, slimy skin and a single gill slit under the throat. With an air-breathing organ it can live in oxygen-poor water and even moist mud. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it snaps at small invertebrates, worms and small fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Slimy swamp eel?
The Slimy swamp eel has a snake-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Slimy swamp eel live?
The Slimy swamp eel lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Slimy swamp eel get?
The Slimy swamp eel grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Slimy swamp eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Slimy swamp eel is harmless to humans.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ophisternon
More from the family Synbranchidae
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