Common name: Marbled snake eel

Scientific name: Callechelys marmorata (Bleeker, 1854)

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

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Eels
    Anguilliformes
  5. Family
    Snake Eels
    Ophichthidae
  6. Genus
    Snake Eels
    Callechelys
  7. Species
    Marbled snake eel
    Callechelys marmorata (Bleeker, 1854)
  8. Synonyms
    Callechelys guichenoti Kaup, 1856
    Dalophis marmorata Bleeker, 1854
    Ophichthys 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.