Fin's Fish Guide
The Band cusk-eel (Ophidion holbrookii) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophidiidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
Ophidion holbrookii, the band cusk-eel, is an eel-like bottom fish of the family Ophidiidae from the western Atlantic. The species has an elongate body tapering toward the rear with a continuous, fringed dorsal, caudal and anal fin, and reaches about 30 cm. It lives on soft bottoms of coastal bays to about 75 metres deep, where it buries in the sediment by day and emerges at night to hunt small invertebrates. The eggs are laid in a floating, gelatinous mass. The flesh is appreciated and the species is of limited commercial importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Band cusk-eel?
The Band cusk-eel has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Eel-shaped with a continuous fin fringe; buries itself during the day and hunts at night.
Where does the Band cusk-eel live?
The Band cusk-eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Soft bottoms of coastal waters of the western Atlantic.
How big does the Band cusk-eel get?
The Band cusk-eel grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 23 cm.
Is the Band cusk-eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Band cusk-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 Band cusk-eel edible?
The Band cusk-eel is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ophidion
More from the family Ophidiidae
Want the complete picture on the Band cusk-eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Band cusk-eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.