The Slender worm eel (Yirrkala tenuis) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Ophichthidae that grows up to 53 cm.
Description
The slender worm eel is a snake eel (Ophichthidae) from shallow sandy and coastal water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a very slender, eel-like, pale body with a small head and a hard, pointed tail with which it burrows backwards into sand. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it lies hidden by day and searches for small invertebrates and small fish at night. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Slender worm eel?
The Slender worm eel has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly white.
Where does the Slender worm eel live?
The Slender worm eel lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Slender worm eel get?
The Slender worm eel grows to a maximum of about 53 cm.
Is the Slender worm eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Slender worm eel is harmless to humans.
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Habitat & distribution
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More from the family Ophichthidae
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