Snake eels
Spotted snake eel (Myrichthys maculosus)
The Spotted snake eel (Myrichthys maculosus) belongs to the family Ophichthidae (snake eels) and is found in the Red Sea, with a wider Indo-Pacific range. It is a carnivore and usually seen alone. It reaches about 50 cm and is found at 1–50 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Least Concern. It is not dangerous to divers.
Quick facts
| Scientific name | Myrichthys maculosus |
|---|---|
| Family | Snake eels (Ophichthidae) |
| Common name (IT) | Biscia di mare maculata |
| Common name (EN) | Spotted snake eel |
| Maximum size | 50 cm |
| Depth | 1–50 m |
| Distribution | Red Sea and Indo-Pacific |
| IUCN status | LC — Least Concern |
Description
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
Where it lives
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
- Red Sea
- Indo-Pacific
Frequently asked questions
- What family does the Spotted snake eel belong to?
- The Spotted snake eel (Myrichthys maculosus) belongs to the family Ophichthidae (snake eels).
- Is the Spotted snake eel dangerous?
- It is not dangerous to divers. As with any reef animal, do not touch or handle it.
- Is the Spotted snake eel endemic to the Red Sea?
- No — it occurs in the Red Sea but its range extends across the Indo-Pacific.
- How big does the Spotted snake eel get?
- It reaches a maximum length of about 50 cm.
Explore the Spotted snake eel in 3D in the interactive atlas →