Fin's Fish Guide
The Pearlbelly snake-eel (Scolecenchelys laticaudata) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 35 cm.
Description
The pearlbelly snake-eel is a small snake eel from coastal and reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 35 cm and has a long, slender, worm-like, scaleless body with a pale belly and a flattened tail. As a bottom-dweller it lives hidden in sand and rubble bottoms of shallow water, where it burrows and searches at night for small worms and crustaceans. The fish is harmless to humans and has no commercial value. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pearlbelly snake-eel?
The Pearlbelly snake-eel has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Worm-like body with a pale belly; burrowing snake eel
Where does the Pearlbelly snake-eel live?
The Pearlbelly snake-eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Pearlbelly snake-eel get?
The Pearlbelly snake-eel grows to a maximum of about 35 cm.
Is the Pearlbelly snake-eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Pearlbelly 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.
Is the Pearlbelly snake-eel edible?
The Pearlbelly snake-eel is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Scolecenchelys
More from the family Ophichthidae
Want the complete picture on the Pearlbelly snake-eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pearlbelly snake-eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.