Fin's Fish Guide
The Liberian swamp eel (Monopterus boueti) is a freshwater fish of the family Synbranchidae that grows up to 34 cm.
Description
The Liberian swamp eel is a swamp eel (Synbranchidae) from fresh water and swamps of West Africa. The species grows to about 34 cm and has an eel-like, fin-poor, brownish, scaleless body with fused gill openings. Thanks to air-breathing it survives in oxygen-poor, muddy water and can shelter in moist mud during drought. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it searches for worms, insect larvae and small fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Liberian swamp eel?
The Liberian swamp eel has a snake-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Liberian swamp eel live?
The Liberian swamp eel lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Africa: Liberia, Sierra Leone
How big does the Liberian swamp eel get?
The Liberian swamp eel grows to a maximum of about 34 cm.
Is the Liberian swamp eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Liberian 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.
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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 Liberian swamp eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Liberian swamp eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.