Fin's Fish Guide
The Western shore eel (Alabes occidentalis) is a saltwater fish of the family Gobiesocidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Description
The Western shore eel is a shore eel (Gobiesocidae) from shallow rocky and seagrass water of western Australia. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a very slender, eel-like, scaleless body with strongly reduced fins and a pointed head. As a bottom-dweller it wriggles among weed, seagrass and stones of tide pools and snaps at small crustaceans and invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Western shore eel?
The Western shore eel has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Western shore eel live?
The Western shore eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia
How big does the Western shore eel get?
The Western shore eel grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Western shore eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Western shore 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
Same genus Alabes
More from the family Gobiesocidae
Want the complete picture on the Western shore eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Western shore eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.