Longfin Snake Eel
Pisodonophis cancrivorus
Also known as: Black-pitted Sand Eel, Burrowing Snake Eel, Estuary Snake Eel, Worm Eel
- Black-pitted Sand Eel
- Burrowing Snake Eel
- Estuary Snake Eel
- Worm Eel
Overview
Found singly or in loose groups, usually buried, or with just their heads showing, in mud patches or sand, over estuaries, lagoons, and coastal reefs.
They feed nocturnally on crustaceans and small fish.
Snake Eels resemble snakes or worms because they have virtually no fins. Their pointed snouts and tails allow them to burrow beneath the sand.
They can usually be found with just their head showing above the sand waiting for their prey, a few species prowl around the sands at night. Some mimic banded sea snakes and can be found in the open during the day.
How to identify
- Pattern
- back spotsspots
Tap any trait to see other fish that share it.
Habitat & where to find it
- Range · Indo-Pacific
- Country only · 1
Found singly or in loose groups, usually buried, or with just their heads showing, in mud patches or sand, over estuaries, lagoons, and coastal reefs.
Adult photos 1
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Deep dive
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