Fin's Fish Guide
The Polka-dot cusk-eel (Otophidium omostigma) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophidiidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Western Atlantic from North Carolina to Florida, the northern Gulf of Mexico and the Lesser Antilles to northern South America; sand and silty bottoms.
Description
The polka-dot cusk-eel (Otophidium omostigma) is a cusk-eel of the western Atlantic, from North Carolina to Florida, the northern Gulf of Mexico and the Lesser Antilles to northern South America. It grows to about 13 centimetres and lives on sand and mud bottoms at 10-50 metres. The elongate body is pale with two to three rows of dark-brown blotches and a conspicuous black blotch just above the gill cover; the dorsal and anal fins run to the tail. The eggs float in a gelatinous mass in open water. The species is harmless and of no fishing interest.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Polka-dot cusk-eel?
The Polka-dot cusk-eel has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Pale body with rows of brown blotches and a black blotch above the operculum; dorsal and anal fin continuous to the tail.
Where does the Polka-dot cusk-eel live?
The Polka-dot cusk-eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic from North Carolina to Florida, the northern Gulf of Mexico and the Lesser Antilles to northern South America; sand and silty bottoms.
How big does the Polka-dot cusk-eel get?
The Polka-dot cusk-eel grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Polka-dot cusk-eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Polka-dot cusk-eel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Polka-dot cusk-eel edible?
The Polka-dot cusk-eel is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Ophidiidae
Want the complete picture on the Polka-dot cusk-eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Polka-dot cusk-eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.