Fin's Fish Guide
The Yellow pike conger (Congresox talabon) is a brackish-water fish of the family Muraenesocidae that grows up to 80 cm.
Asia: Bangladesh, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, India and others
Description
The Yellow pike conger is a pike conger (Muraenesocidae) from coastal and estuarine water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 1.5-2.5 metres and has an elongate, eel-like, silver-grey body with a pointed head and a broad mouth full of large, fang-like teeth. As a fast bottom predator it hunts fish and crustaceans in turbid water. When handled or cornered it can give a fierce, slicing bite; keep clear of the jaws.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Yellow pike conger?
The Yellow pike conger has a snake-like body and is mainly silver-grey. Can bite with sharp teeth or powerful jaws; handle with care.
Where does the Yellow pike conger live?
The Yellow pike conger lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Bangladesh, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, India and others
How big does the Yellow pike conger get?
The Yellow pike conger grows to a maximum of about 80 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Yellow pike conger dangerous to humans?
The Yellow pike conger can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. A bite from this eel, with its large, fang-like teeth, causes a deep cut. Rinse the wound with clean water, apply firm pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. For a deep or extensive wound seek medical care, have it sutured if needed, update tetanus protection and watch for signs of infection.
Is the Yellow pike conger edible?
Yes, the Yellow pike conger is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Muraenesocidae
Want the complete picture on the Yellow pike conger?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Yellow pike conger is one of 12,519 species in the app.