Fin's Fish Guide
The Reef cuskeel (Brosmophyciops pautzkei) is a saltwater fish of the family Bythitidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Christmas I., Cocos Is. (Keel), Comoros, French Polynesia and others
Description
The reef cuskeel is a small, shy livebearing brotula (Bythitidae) from shallow reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 7 cm and has a stocky, brownish, scale-poor body with long, confluent dorsal, tail and anal fins. As a hidden bottom-dweller it lives deep in coral crevices, caves and under overhangs and snaps at small crustaceans; it bears live young. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Reef cuskeel?
The Reef cuskeel has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Reef cuskeel live?
The Reef cuskeel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Christmas I., Cocos Is. (Keel), Comoros, French Polynesia and others
How big does the Reef cuskeel get?
The Reef cuskeel grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Reef cuskeel dangerous to humans?
No, the Reef cuskeel 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
More from the family Bythitidae
Want the complete picture on the Reef cuskeel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Reef cuskeel is one of 12,519 species in the app.