Aquaria
Shorttail Snake Eel

Shorttail Snake Eel

NameShorttail Snake Eel
Scientific NameOphichthus brevicaudatus
Common NamesShorttail Snake Eel
FamilyOphichthidae
OriginIndo-Pacific
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)100
Max Size (Inches)39
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-78
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesLarge Angelfish, Triggerfish (cautiously), Groupers, Lionfish, Moray Eels (similar size)

Description

The Shorttail Snake Eel is a fascinating marine species known for its elongated, snake-like body and its habit of burrowing into sandy substrates, often leaving only its head exposed. It is a nocturnal ambush predator, feeding on small fish and crustaceans that venture too close. This eel requires a deep sand bed in an aquarium to thrive.

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