Mekong’s estuary snake eel
📖 Overview
Mekong’s estuary snake eel (Ophichthus cuulongensis) is a ray-finned fish of the family Ophichthidae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters. This species can reach a maximum total length of 99.8 cm. It occurs at depths between 8 and 20 metres. With a trophic level of 4.1, it is a mid-level predator.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Vertebrae: 199 - 207. This species is distinguished by the following set of characters: occipital not convex prominently, dorsal of snout with median shallow groove, reaching to interorbital pore; three or more shallow wrinkles (usually 3) on posterior part of eye; body with numerous longitudinal wrinkles, also prominent on abdomen; head length 5.2-6.2% TL; tail length 65.4-68.8% TL; two protrusions along upper lip from each side (some paratypes 1 on one side); dorsal-fin origin slightly behind pectoral-fin tip; SO 1 + 3, POM 5 (or rarely 6) + 2; teeth small (but larger in intermaxillary and anterior vomer); body dark brown, paler abdomen; dark-margined dorsal fin, anal fin initially pale but in posterior part with faded dark margin, the area more than two head length; total vertebrae 199-207, MVF 14-62-202 .: eel-like; Cross section: circular.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Mekong’s estuary snake eel is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; benthopelagic; depth range 8 - 20 m . Tropical Central Pacific: Vietnam.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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