Stargazer Snake Eel

Brachysomophis cirrocheilos, commonly referred to as the stargazer snake eel, is a benthic marine species within the Ophichthidae family. This species is notable for its considerable size, reaching lengths of up to 159 cm (63 in). It is predominantly found in the tropical regions of the 🌊 Indian Ocean, the 🌊 Red Sea, and the western 🌊 Pacific Ocean. The stargazer snake eel inhabits sandy and muddy substrates near coastal reefs at depths ranging from 1 to 10 meters (3 to 33 feet). This species exhibits nocturnal behavior, remaining concealed in the sediment during daylight hours with only its head exposed.

The stargazer snake eel is characterized by its moderately elongated body, reaching a maximum length of 159 cm (63 in), with the head comprising approximately 12% and the tail about 55% of the total length. Its body transitions from a triangular cross-section to a cylindrical form behind the vent, culminating in a hard, pointed tip. The snout is of moderate length, with the lower jaw extending beyond the upper. The nostrils are closely set with short tubular structures. The eyes are relatively small and positioned dorsally on the head rather than laterally. The mouth features a long cleft, and the conical teeth remain hidden when closed. There are two rows of teeth in the upper jaw, a single row in the lower jaw, and some canine-like teeth on the roof of the mouth. Both upper and lower lips are adorned with numerous barbels. The pectoral fins are relatively short, and the dorsal fin originates posterior to the gill openings and the pectoral fin tips. Notably, this species lacks pelvic and caudal fins and possesses between 135 and 140 vertebrae. The dorsal surface exhibits a pale brown coloration with darker smudges and speckles, while the ventral area is creamy-white, and the fins are dusky brown.

Brachysomophis cirrocheilos is native to shallow tropical and subtropical waters of the western Indo-Pacific, inhabiting both marine and brackish environments. Its geographical distribution spans from 39°N to 20°S and 35°E to 148°E, covering East Africa, the 🌊 Red Sea, and extending to 🇯🇵 Japan, 🇹🇼 Taiwan, and northern 🇦🇺 Australia.

This species is nocturnal, burrowing into the sediment tail-first during the day, with only its eyes and the top of its head or snout exposed—aided by its cryptic coloration, which enhances its camouflage. At night, it emerges to hunt for crustaceans and small fish. Observations have noted occasional associations with the cleaning shrimp Ancylomenes magnificus, which rests on the eel's head, periodically swimming away and returning. Brachysomophis cirrocheilos is not commercially fished and is not considered edible.