Description
The Banded Snake Eel (Myrichthys colubrinus) is a species of eel found in the Atlantic, Indian and West Pacific oceans. It is also known as a harlequin snake eel, Ringed snake eel, or Tesselated snake eel. The eel is named after its black bands that pattern the length of its body. These eels can grow to 60cm in length, although usually less. They are generally found hiding in the coral reefs in the day and hunting the along the reef at night.
Snorkeling Video
Habitat
These eels live in shallow coral reefs, sandy bottoms, commonly found in the Atlantic, Indian and West Pacific oceans.
Diet
They eat small invertebrates and small fish that they capture by hunting along the coral reef and capturing prey with their sharp teeth.
Appearance
Banded Snake Eel’s are named after its black bands that pattern the length of its body. These eels can grow up to 60cm in length, although usually less.
Key Features
- Distinctive black and yellow banded pattern that covers the length of its body.
- Small dorsal fin that runs along the top of its body.
Threats
IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concerned
Frequently Asked Questions
Banded snake eels can be dangerous to humans. They are generally shy and unlikely to bite unless cornered or threatened.
These eels live in shallow coral reefs, sandy bottoms, commonly found in the Atlantic, Indian and West Pacific oceans.
Banded Snake Eel’s are named after its black bands that pattern the length of its body. These eels can grow up to 60cm in length, although usually less.
