marbled eel
| Scientific name | Anguilla marmorata |
|---|---|
| Descriptor | Quoy & Gaimard |
| Year of description | 1824 |
| IUCN category | LC |
| Family | Anguillidae |
| Genus | Anguilla |
Introduction
Anguilla marmorata, commonly known as marbled eel, is a fresh water fish.
Who is it?
Genus Anguilla
Eels are serpentine fishes with a cylindrical body. They have small scales embedded in their dermis. Their skin is covered by abundant mucus.
In 2019, 19 species of eels have been identified. Genus Anguilla belongs to the Anguilliformes, which is composed of this single genus sub-group. These species live in tempered as well as tropical oceans.
All eels share a similar reproduction cycle. First, larvae are born in the sea and migrate to the continental shelf where they go through morphological changes. Then, they colonize all the freshwater streams. Using this strategy avoids an intra-species competition.
Morphology
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Average size70 cm
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Maximum size200 cm
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Longevity40 year
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ShapeSerpentiform
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Patternmottling
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Average size70 cm
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Maximum size200 cm
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Longevity40 year
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ShapeSerpentiform
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Patternmottling
How to recognize the marbled eel ?
The marbled eel measures between 70 and 200 cm. This fish is tricolore with a predominantly marron, blanc and beige body. The also has marron mottling.
Behaviour & Life cycle
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dietcarnivorous
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Sociabilitysolitary
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territorialNo
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Way of livingnocturnal
The marbled eel is a fish solitary naturally found near the bottom. This species is carnivorous . This fish lives mainly at night. Usually, it leaves its hiding place and starts to be active once it gets dark.
Although the marbled eel is non-territorial, it is sometimes aggressive towards other species. In a constant quest for dominance, the dominant males of this species cannot stand each other. The battle between two individuals can be intense and violent. It will result in the submission and sometimes even death of one of the protagonists.
Reproduction
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Reproductionovipare
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Migratory speciesYes
The marbled eel is a fish ovipare. This fish protects its eggs from nearby predators.
Harmless species
This species does not represent any particular threats to humans when encountered in its natural environment.
Where to find it?
Where to see this species?
What is its habitat?
Natural environment characteristics
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Temperature16 - 28 °C
Biotope presentation
The acidification of water comes from the decomposition of plants. This phenomenon changes the color of the water, which tends to turn brown. In some areas particularly rich in organic matter, the water is so dark that it is called "black water".
The marbled eel is most often found at a depth between 1m and 1000m. However, it is not impossible to find this species at other depths.
To go further
To read on the web
Sources & Contributions
Participation & Validation
The Fishipedia team and specialist contributors are committed to providing high-quality content. However, although the information comes from scientific sources or testimonials from specialists, the cards may contain inaccuracies.
Adrien Falzon
Translation
Translation done with the valuable contribution of our translators, who make this information available to a wider audience. We sincerely thank them for their commitment.
Where to see this species?
Tags
Species of the same biotope
Scientific partners