Blacksaddle Snake Eel

Ophichthus cephalozona

The Blacksaddle Snake Eel, a member of the family Ophichthidae, is characterized by its elongated, eel-like body and distinctive dark marking on the back of its head. Its body is pale, almost white, with a dark snout, making it relatively easy to identify among other eel species. Males can grow up to 115 centimeters in length. This species is primarily nocturnal, foraging during the night and spending the day burrowed in sandy or muddy substrates. This eel is found in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, with its range extending from Myanmar to the Society Islands. It inhabits shallow reef environments, typically dwelling at depths between 2 and 15 meters, although it has been recorded at depths up to 30 meters. The Blacksaddle Snake Eel is not targeted by fisheries and poses no threat to humans. Divers encountering this species may find it burrowed in the substrate during the day or actively foraging at night. It is assessed as Least Concern by the IUCN.