Fin's Fish Guide
The Blotched cusk-eel (Ophidion grayi) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophidiidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Western Atlantic, demersal on soft bottoms of coastal waters; buries itself during the day.
Description
The blotched cusk-eel is a cusk-eel (family Ophidiidae) of the western Atlantic. The species reaches about 30 cm and has an elongate, brown-silvery body with blotches and a continuous dorsal and anal fin merging into the tail. It lives demersally on soft bottoms of coastal waters and burrows into sand or mud by day; at night it hunts small crustaceans and bottom invertebrates. Reproduction is oviparous, with oval eggs floating in a gelatinous mass. It is an uncommon, seldom-seen species. It is harmless to humans and of no fishery value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blotched cusk-eel?
The Blotched cusk-eel has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Nocturnal, eel-like bottom-dweller that buries itself in sand or mud during the day.
Where does the Blotched cusk-eel live?
The Blotched cusk-eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic, demersal on soft bottoms of coastal waters; buries itself during the day.
How big does the Blotched cusk-eel get?
The Blotched cusk-eel grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Blotched cusk-eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Blotched cusk-eel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blotched cusk-eel edible?
The Blotched cusk-eel is not usually eaten.
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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 Blotched cusk-eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blotched cusk-eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone