Fin's Fish Guide
The Slantlip eel (Caralophia loxochila) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 46 cm.
Description
The slantlip eel is a snake eel from the western Atlantic, from Florida and the Bahamas to the Caribbean. The species grows to about 46 cm and has a very elongate, snake-like, light brown body with a slanted lower lip, from which the species takes its name. As a bottom-dweller it digs burrows in sandy and seagrass bottoms of shallow coastal waters, where it hunts small bottom animals from cover. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Slantlip eel?
The Slantlip eel has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Very elongated snake-like body with a skewed lower lip; burrow digger
Where does the Slantlip eel live?
The Slantlip eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic
How big does the Slantlip eel get?
The Slantlip eel grows to a maximum of about 46 cm.
Is the Slantlip eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Slantlip 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 Slantlip eel edible?
The Slantlip eel is not usually eaten.
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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 Slantlip eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Slantlip eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.