WHATSTHATFISH
Bony fish

Reptilian Snake Eel

Brachysomophis henshawi

Also known as: Crocodile Snake Eel, Hawaiian Crocodile Eel, Henshaw's Snake Eel

LCLeast ConcernIUCN Red List, 2022
Adult
@fishx6 · Lembeth Resort, Indonesia · June 20061 / 4
01

Overview

Found singly, buried in mud, rubble, and sand, with just the head showing, close to coral and rocky reefs.

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.

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How to identify

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Habitat & where to find it

  • Range · Indo-Pacific
  • Country only · 4
LIVES IN

Found singly, buried in mud, rubble, and sand, with just the head showing, close to coral and rocky reefs.

04

Adult photos 4

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Discussion

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    ALL STAGES
    FOR THE MARINE-BIOLOGY CURIOUS

    Deep dive

    Taxonomy

    1. kingdomAnimalia
    2. phylumChordata
    3. classTeleostei
    4. orderAnguilliformes
    5. familyOphichthidae
    6. genusBrachysomophis
    7. speciesBrachysomophis henshawi Jordan & Snyder, 1904

    SourcesWoRMSFishBase

    06

    More in the family

    Snake Eels (Ophichthidae)