Giant Snake Eel

Ophisurus serpens

Giant Snake Eel (Ophisurus serpens)

Max Size

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Max Weight

Max Depth

300 m

Ophisurus serpens is an eel of the genus Ophisurus, found in the eastern Atlantic, western Mediterranean, western Indian Ocean, western Pacific, and the north east coast of North Island in New Zealand.

Other names: Serpent Eel or Sand Snake-eel.

Description

Its length is between 150 and 250 centimetres. Body is olive green to greyish brown above, paler below. Head pores are black. When young is silvery.

Distribution

Circumglobal: Atlantic (northern coast of Iberian peninsula to South Africa, also Madeira and western Mediterranean) and Indo-Pacific: southern Mozambique to South Africa; north to Japan, south to Australia.

Habitat

It can be found to depths of about 300 m, on sandy or muddy bottoms near rock outcrops.

Colors

white
brown
grey
silver
green

Edible

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Habitat and Environment

Benthic

Mud and Sand

Conservation status

(LC) Least concern

Poisonous

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Social Behaviour

Solitary

Danger to human

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Venomous

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Similar Species

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Giant Snake Eel dangerous?

Giant Snake Eel is classified as: No, No, No. Always exercise caution and keep a safe distance.

Where can you find Giant Snake Eel?

Australia West Atlantic Ocean East Morocco North Morocco West Montenegro +56 more in Seabook

How deep does Giant Snake Eel live?

Giant Snake Eel can be found at depths of up to 300 meters.

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