The Yellow garden eel (Heteroconger luteolus) is a saltwater fish of the family Congridae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The yellow garden eel is a garden eel (Congridae) from shallow coastal water of the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 40 cm but is very thin and thread-like, with a yellowish body and large eyes. It lives in colonies, each animal anchored by its rear in a self-dug burrow in the sand while the forebody reaches into the current to snap passing zooplankton; when in danger it withdraws entirely. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Yellow garden eel?
The Yellow garden eel has a snake-like body and is mainly yellow-gold.
Where does the Yellow garden eel live?
The Yellow garden eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: USA
How big does the Yellow garden eel get?
The Yellow garden eel grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Yellow garden eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Yellow garden 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 Heteroconger
More from the family Congridae

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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Yellow garden eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.