Aiavoolikutena

Aiavoolikutena, sometimes referred to as garden eels, are a subfamily of marine eels belonging to the family Congridae. They are characterized by their slender bodies and the unique habit of living in colonies on sandy or muddy seabeds. These eels spend most of their lives burrowed tail-first into the substrate, with only their heads and upper bodies protruding. This allows them to quickly retreat into their burrows at the first sign of danger.

The protruding bodies of aiavoolikutena sway gently in the water currents, resembling blades of grass or reeds in a garden, which is the origin of their common name. They feed on small planktonic organisms that drift by. When aiavoolikutena feel threatened, they will rapidly disappear into their burrows, often in unison, creating a striking visual effect. They emerge again when the perceived threat has passed.

These eels are found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide, inhabiting areas with suitable soft bottoms for burrowing. They are generally small to medium-sized, with varying coloration depending on the species. Social behavior is a key aspect of their survival, with colonies providing a degree of protection through early detection of predators. Reproduction typically involves the release of eggs and sperm into the water column.