Fin's Fish Guide
The Indo-Pacific messmate-fish (Encheliophis homei) is a saltwater fish of the family Carapidae that grows up to 19 cm.
Description
The silver pearlfish is a remarkable, eel-shaped fish of the pearlfish family (Carapidae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 19 cm and has a translucent, greatly elongate, tapering, scaleless body. It lives as an inhabitant inside the body of sea cucumbers: by day it shelters in the coelom and respiratory trees of the host, which it enters through the anus. At night it leaves the host to hunt small crustaceans and small fishes. The relationship gives the pearlfish protection. Owing to its hidden habits it is rarely seen and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Indo-Pacific messmate-fish?
The Indo-Pacific messmate-fish has a snake-like body, is mainly white and shows a plain pattern. Lives as a resident in the body cavity and respiratory trees of sea cucumbers.
Where does the Indo-Pacific messmate-fish live?
The Indo-Pacific messmate-fish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; inside the body of sea cucumbers on reefs.
How big does the Indo-Pacific messmate-fish get?
The Indo-Pacific messmate-fish grows to a maximum of about 19 cm.
Is the Indo-Pacific messmate-fish dangerous to humans?
No, the Indo-Pacific messmate-fish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Indo-Pacific messmate-fish edible?
The Indo-Pacific messmate-fish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Encheliophis
More from the family Carapidae
Want the complete picture on the Indo-Pacific messmate-fish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Indo-Pacific messmate-fish is one of 12,519 species in the app.