Fin's Fish Guide
The Round sand-eel (Bascanichthys cylindricus) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 88 cm.
Description
The whip eel is a snake eel (Ophichthidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species has an extremely elongate, thin, almost cylindrical, worm-like body with a stiff, pointed tail with which it burrows backwards into the bottom. It inhabits sand bottoms to a few metres deep, where it lives largely buried with sometimes only the head protruding. As a bottom hunter it grabs small invertebrates and small fishes. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Round sand-eel?
The Round sand-eel has a snake-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a plain pattern. Extremely elongate, worm-shaped body; bores into sand with a stiff, pointed tail.
Where does the Round sand-eel live?
The Round sand-eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific; sandy bottoms of shallow water.
How big does the Round sand-eel get?
The Round sand-eel grows to a maximum of about 88 cm.
Is the Round sand-eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Round sand-eel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Round sand-eel edible?
The Round sand-eel is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Bascanichthys
More from the family Ophichthidae
Want the complete picture on the Round sand-eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Round sand-eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.