eel

An eel is an elongated type of fish superficially resembling a snake. The different species range in adult length from 4 inches to 20 feet or more. They tend to live in shallower waters, though larger varieties frequent the depths of the ocean.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Eels are fish that superficially resemble snakes, with a single long fin that runs from the middle of its length, down the midline around the end of the tail, and forward to the base of the tail. Compared to other fish, an eel's gill slits are smaller, and the scales are smoother or absent completely.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Eels are predatory fish that typically hunt and feed on smaller fish, aquatic vermin, and shellfish, but larger eels have been known to attack aquatic humanoids.

Related Technologies

• aquaculture