Snake Eel

The crocodile snake eel (Brachysomophis crocodilinus) is a nocturnal ambush predator found on sandy slopes and rubble. It often buries its long body with only its crocodile-like head—armored ridges, big eyes, and a toothy grin—left exposed, perfectly camouflaged in mottled browns and creams. After dark it emerges to hunt small fishes and crustaceans, sometimes free-swimming with slow, sinuous movements. While not aggressive, it can bite if provoked, so admire it with a gentle, steady approach.

This snake eel is often seen completely exposed in shallow water. It has a white body with brown to black bars and has an overhanging snout, with small pectoral fins. This snake eel is often mis-identified as a sea snake because of the banded color that is similar to the banded sea snake.

Found in the sand, with only the tip of its head protruding. It resembles a stargazer by color, having the stargazer’s goggle-like eyes and mouth showing rows of teeth. Mostly seen during afternoon and night dives.

Its natural habitat is a soft sandy substrate of protected bays. Can usually be found buried in sand, only with its head protruding. Occasionally seen free-swimming, most often during night dives. Has a distinctive pattern of dark brown rimmed spots and blotches on its head. The rest of the body has thick black and white bands.

Hides in crevices but mostly buries in sand or mud. Usually only its head projects from the substrate. Occasionally seen out and hunting. Very often has cleaner shrimps sitting on its snout. Solitary species. It has a dark snout and a saddle like patch behind head. Rest of its body is cream or white. Can be confused with a similar species, the Black-finned snake eel, which has a white patch under its eye.