Fin's Fish Guide
The Pacific shortfin eel (Anguilla obscura) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Anguillidae that grows up to 110 cm.
Oceania: Australia, Cook Is., Fiji, Tahiti, Tuamotu Is., French Polynesia and others
Description
The Pacific shortfin eel is a freshwater eel (Anguillidae) from rivers, lakes and estuaries of the islands of the western Pacific. The species grows to about 1 metre and has an elongate, snake-like body with a smooth, slimy skin, small scales and a long, continuous dorsal, tail and anal fin. It is catadromous: it grows for years in fresh water and migrates far out into the ocean to spawn. As a nocturnal predator it hunts small fish, crustaceans and worms. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pacific shortfin eel?
The Pacific shortfin eel has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Pacific shortfin eel live?
The Pacific shortfin eel lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Australia, Cook Is., Fiji, Tahiti, Tuamotu Is., French Polynesia and others
How big does the Pacific shortfin eel get?
The Pacific shortfin eel grows to a maximum of about 110 cm. On average the species is around 60 cm.
Is the Pacific shortfin eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Pacific shortfin 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 Pacific shortfin eel edible?
The Pacific shortfin eel is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Anguilla
More from the family Anguillidae
Want the complete picture on the Pacific shortfin eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pacific shortfin eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.