Chilean worm eel (Scolecenchelys chilensis) 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 28.4 cm. It occurs at depths between 3 and 35 metres. With a trophic level of 4, it is a mid-level predator. It is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
Vertebrae: 148 - 152. This species of the Scolecenchelys gymnota species group is distinguished by the following set of characters: head 8.9-9.7 % TL; tail 53-56 % TL; trunk 36-38 % TL; body depth 1.9-2.2 % TL; horizontal distance between dorsal-fin origin and a vertical through mid-anus 38-60 % ; with a prominent median groove, ventral on snout; teeth on jaws and vomerine in a single row; predorsal vertebrae 66-68, preanal 62-64, and total vertebrae148-152; MVF 67-62-150 .: eel-like; Cross section: circular.
Behavioural data for Chilean worm eel is currently being reviewed.
Diet information for Chilean worm eel is currently being compiled.
Reproduction data for Chilean worm eel is currently being compiled.
Marine; demersal; depth range 3 - 35 m . Subtropical; 25°S - 35°S, 83°W - 76°W Southeast Pacific: Desventuradas Is.
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Muraenichthys chilensis | McCosker | 1970 | Synonym |
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 1 records indexed .
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