Fin's Fish Guide
The Asian swamp eel (Monopterus albus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Synbranchidae that grows up to 100 cm.
Description
The Asian swamp eel is an elongate, eel-like freshwater fish from East and Southeast Asia that grows to about one metre. It lacks pectoral and pelvic fins and has greatly reduced, continuous dorsal and anal fins. The species lives in swamps, rice fields, ditches and slow-flowing waters and can breathe air through its skin and mouth cavity, allowing it to survive dry spells and low-oxygen water. It is a nocturnal predator feeding on invertebrates and small fishes. Notably, the species first functions as a female and later changes into a male. Outside Asia it is locally invasive.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Asian swamp eel?
The Asian swamp eel has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Can breathe air through the skin and mouth cavity; changes from female into male (protogynous).
Where does the Asian swamp eel live?
The Asian swamp eel lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Freshwater of East and Southeast Asia.
How big does the Asian swamp eel get?
The Asian swamp eel grows to a maximum of about 100 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Asian swamp eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Asian swamp eel is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Asian swamp eel edible?
Yes, the Asian swamp eel is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Monopterus
More from the family Synbranchidae
Want the complete picture on the Asian swamp eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Asian swamp eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.