Common Pike Eel

The common pike conger or pike eel (Muraenesox bagio) is a species of eel found throughout most of the Indo-Pacific. In Australia, it is known in the southwest, in Western Australia, around the tropical north of the country, and south to the coast of New South Wales. The common pike conger grows up to 2 m (6 ft 7 in) in length and 7.1 kg (16 lb) in weight. A nocturnal predator, the common pike conger lives in estuaries and near the shore to a depth of 100 m (330 ft). A strong and muscular fish, the common pike conger is a delicacy in South East Asia and features in various dishes.

Breeding

In Australia, the females lay the eggs off the coasts; the eggs take 9–10 weeks to hatch. A female can lay up to four million eggs in a single year.

Nutrition

Pike conger is a nutrient-dense seafood, rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins A, D, and B12. It supports cardiovascular health, neural development, and bone strength. Its low mercury content makes it a safer choice for frequent consumption compared to predatory fish.