The Mauritanian shortface eel (Panturichthys mauritanicus) is a saltwater fish of the family Heterenchelyidae that grows up to 84 cm.
Description
The Mauritanian shortface eel is a burrowing eel of the family Heterenchelyidae from the eastern Atlantic, along West Africa, from Morocco to Guinea. The species reaches about 84 cm and has a thick, snake-like body with a short, blunt head and strongly reduced fins, without pectoral fins. It lives on mud bottoms of the continental shelf, at depths of about 30 to 1000 m, where it hides buried. The diet consists of small polychaete worms, bivalves and crustaceans. Owing to its burrowing habits the species is rarely seen.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mauritanian shortface eel?
The Mauritanian shortface eel has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Mauritanian shortface eel live?
The Mauritanian shortface eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Mauritanian shortface eel get?
The Mauritanian shortface eel grows to a maximum of about 84 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Mauritanian shortface eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Mauritanian shortface eel is harmless to humans.
Is the Mauritanian shortface eel edible?
The Mauritanian shortface eel is not usually eaten.
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More from the family Heterenchelyidae
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