Fin's Fish Guide
The Spaghetti eel (Moringua edwardsi) is a saltwater fish of the family Moringuidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Western Atlantic and Caribbean, on sandy bottoms, in seagrass and near reefs of shallow coastal water.
Description
The spaghetti eel is a very thin, worm-like eel of the family Moringuidae reaching about 15 cm or more. The round, brown-yellow body is strongly elongate, with tiny eyes and very small, far-back fins - adaptations to a burrowing life. With its blunt, hard head it burrows head-first into sandy bottoms, where it lives mostly hidden. The species occurs on sand bottoms, in seagrass and around reefs of shallow coastal water in the western Atlantic and the Caribbean. At night it hunts small crustaceans, worms and other bottom animals. At breeding time the body changes markedly and the eel swims free in the water. Because of its hidden lifestyle it is rarely seen.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spaghetti eel?
The Spaghetti eel has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Very thin, worm-shaped eel with tiny eyes and very small fins; burrows head-first into soft bottoms.
Where does the Spaghetti eel live?
The Spaghetti eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic and Caribbean, on sandy bottoms, in seagrass and near reefs of shallow coastal water.
How big does the Spaghetti eel get?
The Spaghetti eel grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Spaghetti eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Spaghetti eel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Spaghetti eel edible?
The Spaghetti eel is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Moringua
More from the family Moringuidae
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