Anguilla rostrata

Description

This member of the freshwater eel family is a snake-like fish that is olive-green to dark brown above and green-yellow, gray, or white below. The dorsal, caudal, and anal fins form one long, continuous fin that stretches around the rear of the body; pectoral fins are present further up the body. The skin is thick and slimy with tiny oblong scales that form a mosaic pattern.

Habitat

Spends most of its time in the depths of muddy-bottomed fresh water lakes and streams. Often buries itself in the mud where it remains inactive during the daytime and in the winter.

Diet

Omnivore that comes out to feed at night; primarily eats small fishes, insects, crayfish, and shrimp. Will also eat decaying animals and has been known to leave the water to get frogs and small mammals.

Size

Females are on average larger than males; average female length is 2 – 3½ feet, average male length is 1½ - 2 feet.

Range

Widely distributed across North America east of the Rocky Mountains. It is common from Greenland, along the eastern coast to South America, and throughout the middle of the US along the Mississippi River.

Other Useful Information

This eel is tolerant of adverse conditions and can live out of water for an extended period of time.

Similar Species

Lampreys