Fin's Fish Guide
The Scott's shore eel (Alabes scotti) is a saltwater fish of the family Gobiesocidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Temperate coastal waters of southern Australia, among seaweeds, in seagrass and in tide pools of rocky coasts.
Description
Scott's shore eel is a very small, slender and eel-like coastal fish of the family Gobiesocidae (clingfishes) reaching about 5 cm. Unlike most clingfishes, with their flat belly sucking disc, the shore eels (Alabes) have a greatly reduced or absent disc and a worm-like body without pectoral fins. The species lives hidden among weeds, in seagrass and in tide pools of rocky shores of temperate southern Australia. There it searches among the plants for very small crustaceans and invertebrates. The eggs are laid among plants and stones. Because of its minuscule size and hidden lifestyle it is rarely noticed and has no fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Scott's shore eel?
The Scott's shore eel has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Very small, slender and eel-shaped coastal fish (a clingfish relative) without pectoral fins; lives hidden among seaweeds and in tide pools.
Where does the Scott's shore eel live?
The Scott's shore eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Temperate coastal waters of southern Australia, among seaweeds, in seagrass and in tide pools of rocky coasts.
How big does the Scott's shore eel get?
The Scott's shore eel grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Scott's shore eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Scott's shore eel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Scott's shore eel edible?
The Scott's shore eel is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Alabes
More from the family Gobiesocidae
Want the complete picture on the Scott's shore eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Scott's shore eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.