The American eel, Anguilla rostrata, is a distinctive fish species inhabiting the eastern coast of North America. It possesses a slender, snake-like body, which is covered in a protective mucus layer despite having minute scales. A long dorsal fin runs along its back, connecting seamlessly with a similar ventral fin, while pelvic fins are absent. This species exhibits a unique life cycle, known as catadromy, where they live primarily in freshwater or estuarine environments before migrating to saltwater to spawn. The native range of the American eel extends along the Atlantic coast, from Venezuela north to Greenland and Iceland, and inland into the Mississippi River system and the Great Lakes.
Assessing Their Nature
Concerns about the American eel’s potential danger to humans often arise from its appearance and general misconceptions about eels. American eels possess small, conical teeth used for grasping prey. They are not aggressive towards humans and generally prefer to avoid contact. However, like many wild animals, they can bite in self-defense if they feel threatened, are provoked, or are handled carelessly.
A bite from an American eel is usually minor, though it can result in lacerations. American eels are not venomous. While their blood contains a toxin that is poisonous if consumed raw and can cause muscle cramping, this toxicity is neutralized when the eel is cooked. American eels are nocturnal, active at night, and hide during the day in mud, sand, gravel, or other cover. Their focus is finding food and evading predators, not engaging with humans.
Coexisting Safely
American eels can be found in aquatic environments like rivers, streams, lakes, estuaries, and coastal waters. They are bottom dwellers, seeking shelter by burrowing into substrate or hiding among submerged vegetation. They can also travel short distances overland through wet grass, bypassing obstacles or seeking new habitats.
When encountering an American eel, observe it from a distance and avoid handling it. If caught while fishing, release it immediately. Their slippery bodies can make them challenging to handle. Using sand on one’s hands can help improve grip if direct contact becomes necessary for release.
American eels are a natural part of aquatic ecosystems, posing little threat when undisturbed. They contribute to the food web, serving as prey for larger fish and birds like bald eagles and gulls. They are opportunistic feeders, consuming aquatic insects, crustaceans, worms, small fish, and mollusks.