Saltwater eels are some of the ocean’s more fascinating species to observe on the reef. Seemingly always in the midst of a guffaw, they are a great species to feature in underwater photos. Of over 200 species of saltwater eels, we think these five are some of the most unusual.
Snyder’s Moray
The Snyder’s moray is the smallest species within the family, measuring less than six inches in length when fully grown. Its reddish-brown, sometimes dark, mottled coloration dappled with small white spots makes for great camouflage on the reef. It is found throughout the eastern and western Pacific.
Ribbon Eel
The ribbon eel is striking in all its forms, from juvenile to male to female. Starting their life an inky black with bright yellow accents, the black turns to a brilliant turquoise shade as the eel matures. Ribbon eels are protandric hermaphrodites, meaning they are capable of changing sex to female if there are a lack of natural females in the environment. Female ribbon eels present almost entirely yellow, sometimes with blue toward the tail end.
European Eel
The European eel is critically endangered, so seeing one in the wild would be a special treat. While most species grow to 2-2.5 feet in length, species up to five feet have been recorded. Overfishing, parasites, and changes to their natural environment have reduced their populations by 90-98 percent. Breeding programs have so far been unsuccessful.
Wolf Eel
While most eels are content to stick to themselves, the wolf eel has an outward curiosity about divers when they enter its environment. It is not a true eel, as it actually has pectoral fins and pairs of gill slits, rather than circular gills behind the mouth. Juvenile wolf eels are yellow, which fades to an ashy grey as they mature.
Snowflake Eel
The snowflake eel is an absolute delight to see on a dive, with its highly visible dark body covered in bright white spots. This species is found all throughout the Indo-Pacific, and is a popular aquarium species as well.
