Common name: Marbled snake eel
General information
The Marbled Snake Eel, scientifically known as Callechelys marmorata, is a distinctive and fascinating species within the Ophichthidae family. This eel is characterized by its elongated body, mottled brown and white coloration that resembles marble, and a pointed snout. It is not commonly found in the aquarium trade but can be a unique addition to a specialized tank setup.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 150 liter (40 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 27 °C (75 to 81 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 35 cm (1′2″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Prefers sandy substrate
- Diet
- Carnivore Enjoys small crustaceans
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May nip at slow fish
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderEelsAnguilliformes
- FamilySnake EelsOphichthidae
- GenusSnake EelsCallechelys
- SpeciesMarbled snake eelCallechelys marmorata (Bleeker, 1854)
- SynonymsCallechelys guichenoti Kaup, 1856Dalophis marmorata Bleeker, 1854Ophichthys marmoratus (Bleeker, 1854)Pisodonophis maculatus Kaup, 1856
Care
Marbled Snake Eels require a specific environment to thrive in captivity. They need a sandy substrate to burrow in and a tank with a tightly fitting lid to prevent escape. These eels are nocturnal and secretive, so providing plenty of hiding places is essential. They are carnivorous, feeding on small fish and crustaceans in the wild, so a diet of meaty foods like shrimp and fish flesh is recommended.
Reproduction
Little is known about the reproductive habits of Callechelys marmorata in the wild or in captivity. However, like many eels, they are likely to have a complex life cycle involving larval stages that drift in the ocean currents.
Habitat
Marbled Snake Eels are found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Society Islands, north to southern Japan, and south to New Caledonia. They inhabit sandy and rubble substrates in lagoons and coastal reefs, typically at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters.