Fin's Fish Guide
The Redsaddled snake eel (Quassiremus nothochir) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 70 cm.
Description
The redsaddled snake eel is a snake eel (Ophichthidae) from coastal waters of the eastern Pacific, off Central and South America. The species grows to about 70 cm and has an elongate, snake-shaped, pale body with a row of red-brown saddle blotches and a pointed tail tip with which it burrows backwards into sand. As a burrowing bottom-dweller it lies buried by day and hunts small fish and crustaceans at night. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Redsaddled snake eel?
The Redsaddled snake eel has a snake-like body, is mainly white and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Redsaddled snake eel live?
The Redsaddled snake eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Costa Rica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama
How big does the Redsaddled snake eel get?
The Redsaddled snake eel grows to a maximum of about 70 cm.
Is the Redsaddled snake eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Redsaddled 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Quassiremus
More from the family Ophichthidae
Want the complete picture on the Redsaddled snake eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Redsaddled snake eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.