Eels possess teeth, though their dental structures vary considerably among species. Their form, arrangement, and specialized functions are highly adapted to the diverse habitats and feeding strategies of these elongated aquatic creatures. An eel’s teeth offer insights into its predatory behaviors and ecological role.
The Dental Reality of Eels
Most eels have teeth designed for grasping prey. These teeth are typically conical, needle-like, or recurved structures. They are found on the primary jaws and often on the roof of the mouth, known as the palate. Some species, particularly moray eels, also possess a second set of teeth in their throat, called pharyngeal teeth.
Moray eels have two distinct sets of jaws. The first is in the oral cavity, while the second, the pharyngeal jaws, are deeper within the throat. These pharyngeal jaws are mobile, extending forward to assist in prey manipulation.
Teeth for Survival
Eels’ dental adaptations are instrumental to their predatory success. Their sharp, backward-pointing teeth on primary jaws grip slippery prey like fish, squid, and crustaceans, preventing escape. This design ensures prey, once seized, is difficult to dislodge.
Moray eels use their pharyngeal jaws to secure and transport prey. Unlike most fish that rely on suction, morays often inhabit narrow crevices where suction feeding is less effective. The pharyngeal jaws shoot forward, grasp prey, and retract, pulling the meal into the esophagus. This allows them to consume large prey efficiently.
An eel’s teeth reflect its specific diet. Eels consuming hard-shelled organisms like crabs or mollusks may have robust, molar-like teeth for crushing. Those feeding on fish might have finer, needle-like teeth for piercing and holding.
Diversity in Eel Dentition and Human Interaction
Eel dentition shows considerable diversity across over 800 species. Moray eels, for example, have prominent, sharp teeth adapted for tearing flesh. The fangtooth moray is noted for its dagger-sharp, glass-like teeth, exceeding 2 centimeters.
In contrast, many freshwater eels, such as the American eel, possess smaller, granular teeth. Some moray species, like zebra and snowflake eels, have blunt pharyngeal teeth suited for grinding shells. This array of dental structures underscores varied dietary preferences among eel species.
Eels are not aggressive towards humans and typically bite only when threatened or provoked. Bites often occur from accidental encounters, such as a hand placed into a crevice where an eel is hiding, or if the eel mistakes a hand for food. While painful, causing bleeding, swelling, and deep puncture wounds or lacerations, eel bites are rarely life-threatening.
A concern following an eel bite is the risk of infection, as bacteria from the eel’s mouth and marine environment can enter the wound. Though not venomous, some species have mucus with toxins that can contribute to pain and bleeding. Immediate care involves thoroughly cleaning the wound with soap and water, applying pressure to control bleeding, and seeking medical attention, especially for deep wounds or any signs of infection.