Fin's Fish Guide
The Snakefish (Synodus myops) is a saltwater fish of the family Synodontidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Widespread in tropical and subtropical seas worldwide, on sandy bottoms of shallow to moderately deep coastal water.
Description
The snakefish or bluntnose lizardfish is a lizard-like bottom fish of the family Synodontidae (lizardfishes) reaching about 25 cm. The torpedo-shaped body has a short, blunt snout, high-set eyes and a large mouth full of fine needle teeth, even on the tongue; a small adipose fin sits at the rear. The species is widespread in tropical and subtropical seas worldwide and lives on sand bottoms of shallow to moderate coastal water. As an ambush predator it lies half-buried in wait and shoots up to seize small fish and crustaceans. Its bottom colour blends well against the sand. Locally it comes up as bycatch, but it has little commercial importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Snakefish?
The Snakefish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Lizard-like bottom fish with a short, blunt snout, a large mouth full of needle teeth and an adipose fin; lies half-buried in wait.
Where does the Snakefish live?
The Snakefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Widespread in tropical and subtropical seas worldwide, on sandy bottoms of shallow to moderately deep coastal water.
How big does the Snakefish get?
The Snakefish grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Snakefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Snakefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Snakefish edible?
The Snakefish is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Snakefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Snakefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Synodus
More from the family Synodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Snakefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Snakefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.