Fin's Fish Guide
The Slender worm eel (Yirrkala tenuis) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 53 cm.
Description
The slender worm eel is a snake eel (Ophichthidae) from shallow sandy and coastal water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a very slender, eel-like, pale body with a small head and a hard, pointed tail with which it burrows backwards into sand. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it lies hidden by day and searches for small invertebrates and small fish at night. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Slender worm eel?
The Slender worm eel has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly white.
Where does the Slender worm eel live?
The Slender worm eel lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Africa: Mauritius, Mozambique, Reunion I., South Africa
How big does the Slender worm eel get?
The Slender worm eel grows to a maximum of about 53 cm.
Is the Slender worm eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Slender worm 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 Slender worm eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Slender worm eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.