Fin's Fish Guide
The Vulture snake eel (Ichthyapus vulturis) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Oceania: Australia, Chile, Easter I., Comoros, Marquesas Is., Indonesia and others
Description
The vulture snake eel is a snake eel (Ophichthidae) from shallow sandy water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a very slender, near-finless, pale body with a pointed, hard tail tip with which it burrows backwards into the sand. As a bottom-dweller it lives largely buried, projecting only its head to seize small crustaceans and small fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Vulture snake eel?
The Vulture snake eel has a snake-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Vulture snake eel live?
The Vulture snake eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Australia, Chile, Easter I., Comoros, Marquesas Is., Indonesia and others
How big does the Vulture snake eel get?
The Vulture snake eel grows to a maximum of about 60 cm.
Is the Vulture snake eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Vulture snake 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ichthyapus
More from the family Ophichthidae
Want the complete picture on the Vulture snake eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Vulture snake eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.