Finless eel
📖 Overview
Finless eel (Apterichtus kendalli) is a ray-finned fish of the family Ophichthidae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters in benthic environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 60 cm. It occurs at depths between 3 and 400 metres. With a trophic level of 4, it is a mid-level predator. It is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Vertebrae: 137 - 145. This species is distinguished by the following characters: tail 1.8-1.9, head 14-19, and body depth 53-67 in total length; preopercular pores 3 and pores in supratemporal canal 3; conical teeth, uniserial on jaws and vomer; vomerine teeth 5-7; body coloration nearly uniform pale yellow to tan, fresh specimens have a fine sprinkling of melanophores which can take on a mottled or freckled appearance; two brown blotches behind the eye surround a pale patch about equal to eye; and MVF 62-142, total vertebrae 137-145 (n=14) .: eel-like; Cross section: oval.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Finless eel is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; demersal; depth range 3 - 400 m , usually 30 - 80 m . Subtropical; 37°N - 8°N North Carolina, USA and western Bahamas to Venezuela.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caecula kendalli | Gilbert | 1891 | Synonym |
| Sphagebranchus kendalli | Gilbert | 1891 | Synonym |
| Verma kendalli | Gilbert | 1891 | Synonym |
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 2 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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