The Enigma garden eel (Heteroconger enigmaticus) is a saltwater fish of the family Congridae that grows up to 44 cm.
Description
The enigma garden eel is a garden eel (Congridae) from the western Indian Ocean. The species grows to about 44 cm but is very thin and lives in colonies: each animal protrudes from a self-dug vertical burrow in the sandy bottom, with the forebody curved into the current to snap at drifting zooplankton. When threatened it quickly withdraws into its burrow. A dense colony looks like a waving garden. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Enigma garden eel?
The Enigma garden eel has a snake-like body and is mainly white.
Where does the Enigma garden eel live?
The Enigma garden eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Enigma garden eel get?
The Enigma garden eel grows to a maximum of about 44 cm.
Is the Enigma garden eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Enigma garden eel is harmless to humans.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Heteroconger
More from the family Congridae
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