The Sharpsnout Snake Eel, scientifically known as Apterichtus klazingai, is a fascinating and elusive species of eel found in the depths of the ocean. This snake-like fish, belonging to the Ophichthidae family, is a unique and intriguing inhabitant of the marine environment.
Description & Characteristics
The Apterichtus klazingai is characterized by its slender, snake-like body, reaching a maximum size of 40.0 cm. Its long, pointed snout gives it the distinctive “sharpsnout” moniker. This eel, like many of its kind, lacks pectoral fins, lending it an even more snake-like appearance. Its coloration is typically brown or grayish, providing camouflage in the often murky waters it calls home.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Apterichtus klazingai has been observed at depths ranging from 1.0 to 120.0 meters, demonstrating its adaptability to various depths. Its distribution is primarily within the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region, residing in marine zones categorized as epipelagic, mesopelagic, and bathypelagic.
Taxonomy
The species Apterichtus klazingai belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Anguilliformes, and Family: Ophichthidae. The Teleostei class encompasses the vast majority of bony fish, making it the most diverse class of vertebrates. The Anguilliformes order, commonly known as eels, is characterized by their elongated bodies and often lack of pelvic fins. The family Ophichthidae, commonly called snake eels, are characterized by their burrowing habits and the presence of a pointed, projecting snout.
Feeding
The Apterichtus klazingai is known to feed primarily on crustaceans, which it captures using its sharp teeth and quick reflexes. This diet is typical for many snake eel species, as they often reside in the benthic zone and rely on scavenging or hunting small invertebrates.
Image References