The American eel (Anguilla rostrata) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Anguillidae that grows up to 152 cm.
Description
The American eel is a snake-shaped migratory fish of the family Anguillidae reaching about 1.5 metres and closely resembling the European eel. The round, slimy body has a long, continuous fringe of dorsal, tail and anal fins and very small scales embedded in the skin. The species is catadromous: it grows for years in rivers, lakes and estuaries of eastern North America and then migrates once over thousands of kilometres to the Sargasso Sea in the Atlantic to spawn, after which the adults die. The transparent glass eels return to the coast with the currents. Through barriers, habitat loss and fishing the stock has declined sharply; the species is assessed as Endangered (EN).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the American eel?
The American eel has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the American eel live?
The American eel lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the American eel get?
The American eel grows to a maximum of about 152 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the American eel dangerous to humans?
No, the American eel is harmless to humans.
Is the American eel edible?
Yes, the American eel is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Anguilla
More from the family Anguillidae
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