Napoleon Snake Eel
Ophichthus bonaparti
Also known as: Bonaparte's Snake Eel, Brown-banded Snake-Eel, Clown Snake Eel, Napoleon Eel, Purple-banded Snake Eel, Saddled Snake Eel
- Bonaparte's Snake Eel
- Brown-banded Snake-Eel
- Clown Snake Eel
- Napoleon Eel
- Purple-banded Snake Eel
- Saddled Snake Eel
Overview
Found singly, buried with just the head showing, in rubble and sandy areas, near coral 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
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Habitat & where to find it
- Range · Indo-Pacific
- Country only · 5
Found singly, buried with just the head showing, in rubble and sandy areas, near coral reefs.
Adult photos 5
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Deep dive
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