Fin's Fish Guide
The Shorttail viper eel (Scytalichthys miurus) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 97 cm.
Description
The shorttail viper eel is a snake eel (Ophichthidae) from coastal and estuarine water of the eastern Pacific, off Central and South America. The species grows to about 97 cm and has a very slender, snake-shaped body with a large mouth full of long, viper-like teeth. As a burrowing bottom-dweller it lies buried in soft mud of shallow water by day, sometimes with only the toothed head showing, and seizes small fish and crustaceans at night. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Shorttail viper eel?
The Shorttail viper eel has a snake-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Shorttail viper eel live?
The Shorttail viper eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Galapagos Is., Mexico, Panama, Cocos I. (C.R.)
How big does the Shorttail viper eel get?
The Shorttail viper eel grows to a maximum of about 97 cm.
Is the Shorttail viper eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Shorttail viper 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Ophichthidae
Want the complete picture on the Shorttail viper eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shorttail viper eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.