The family Ophichthidae, commonly known as snake eels, comprises over 200 species of fish characterized by their long, cylindrical, serpentine bodies. Their appearance often leads to confusion with true sea snakes (which are reptiles) or with other eel families like the morays. Snake eels are distributed widely across the world’s tropical and warm temperate oceans. This diversity prompts concern about their potential danger to humans, particularly regarding chemical and physical risks.
Are Snake Eels Venomous or Toxic?
Snake eels are definitively not venomous, meaning they lack the specialized glands and delivery mechanism required to inject toxins into another organism. The misconception often arises because certain species, like the banded snake eel (Myrichthys colubrinus), display patterns that mimic those of highly venomous sea snakes, a form of Batesian mimicry. The primary chemical danger is the potential for toxicity if the flesh is consumed. Like many marine fishes, snake eels can carry naturally occurring toxins, such as those responsible for ciguatera poisoning. The most significant chemical danger associated with eel bites stems from bacteria present in the mouth, which can lead to serious secondary infections in an open wound.
Physical Risks and Handling Concerns
The “otherwise dangerous” aspect of snake eels primarily involves their physical capabilities and defensive behavior when provoked. Snake eels possess strong jaws and sharp, pointed teeth designed for capturing and crushing their natural prey. If a person handles a snake eel, steps on one, or otherwise threatens it, the eel is capable of inflicting a painful, deep bite. The severity of a bite depends heavily on the species’ size, as some snake eels can reach lengths of 2.3 meters (7.5 feet) or more. Bites from larger individuals can cause significant tissue damage, lacerations, and heavy bleeding.
The risk of secondary infection is high because of the bacteria present in the eel’s mouth and the marine environment, necessitating prompt medical attention. When disturbed, snake eels exhibit a powerful, rapid defensive response characterized by violent thrashing and a strong urge to burrow. They use their hardened, pointed tail to quickly drive themselves backward into soft substrate like sand or mud. This rapid burrowing action is highly effective for escape but poses a physical risk if a person’s hand or foot is in the way.
Encountering Snake Eels in the Wild
Snake eels are bottom-dwelling fish found across a wide range of habitats, from shallow coastal waters to depths exceeding 800 meters. They thrive in areas with soft sand or muddy substrates, as their survival depends on their ability to burrow. Most species are reclusive and nocturnal, spending daylight hours buried in the sediment. Human encounters are relatively uncommon due to the eels’ preference for hiding and nocturnal activity patterns. Interactions usually occur accidentally, such as when a person wading in shallow water steps on a buried eel or when they are caught as bycatch.