Ophichthidae

Ophichthidae, commonly known as worm eels or snake eels, are a family of elongate, burrowing fishes in the order Anguilliformes. The family comprises roughly 320 species across about 60 genera, making it one of the larger eel families. Members are characterized by slender bodies, a pointed snout, and a tail adapted for digging. Pectoral fins are present in many species, but pelvic fins are absent; the dorsal and anal fins are typically confluent with the caudal fin, producing a continuous fin along much of the body. Eyes are often small, and skin is usually tough and either scaleless or with very small scales.

Ophichthids are marine and demersal, inhabiting sandy or muddy substrates from shallow coastal waters to deeper continental shelf regions. They are found in tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide, with many species spending daylight hours buried in substrate and foraging by night. Diet mainly includes small fish, crustaceans, and polychaetes.

Reproduction follows the general anguilliform pattern, with adults releasing eggs and larvae that develop into leptocephali. Life histories vary by species, and many aspects remain poorly known.

Human interactions are limited; some species are fished for food or bycatch, and a few are kept in public aquariums. Habitat disturbance and coastal development can affect local populations.