The Velvet cuskeel (Lalmohania velutina) is a saltwater fish of the family Monacanthidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The velvet cuskeel is a cusk eel (Ophidiidae) of the deep, soft bottoms of the Indian Ocean. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a flabby, elongate, pale body with a velvety skin, long, confluent dorsal and anal fins and small eyes. As a sluggish bottom-dweller of the dark deep water it shelters in soft sediment and snaps at small crustaceans and worms. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Velvet cuskeel?
The Velvet cuskeel has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly white.
Where does the Velvet cuskeel live?
The Velvet cuskeel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: India
How big does the Velvet cuskeel get?
The Velvet cuskeel grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Velvet cuskeel dangerous to humans?
No, the Velvet cuskeel 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 Monacanthidae

Want the complete picture on the Velvet cuskeel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Velvet cuskeel is one of 12,519 species in the app.