Fin's Fish Guide
The Whip snake eel (Bascanichthys paulensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 62 cm.
Description
The whip snake eel is a snake eel (Ophichthidae) from shallow sand and estuarine water of the western Atlantic. The species grows to about 50 cm and has an extraordinarily thin, thread-like, pale body with a pointed, hard tail tip with which it burrows backwards into the soft bottom. As a bottom-dweller it lives almost entirely buried and snaps at small worms and crustaceans. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Whip snake eel?
The Whip snake eel has a snake-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Whip snake eel live?
The Whip snake eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Brazil, Congo
How big does the Whip snake eel get?
The Whip snake eel grows to a maximum of about 62 cm.
Is the Whip snake eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Whip snake 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Bascanichthys
More from the family Ophichthidae
Want the complete picture on the Whip snake eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Whip snake eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone