synbranchid

Synbranchidae is a family of eels, commonly known as swamp eels or spiny eels. These fish are characterized by their elongated, serpentine bodies and lack of pectoral and pelvic fins. Their dorsal and anal fins are also reduced and confluent with the caudal fin. Synbranchids are found in tropical and subtropical freshwater environments across Africa, Asia, and the Americas. They are typically bottom-dwelling and inhabit a variety of habitats including swamps, marshes, rivers, and canals.

A notable characteristic of many synbranchids is their ability to breathe air. They possess suprabranchial organs, which allow them to extract oxygen from the atmosphere. This adaptation enables them to survive in oxygen-poor waters and even aestivate in mud during dry periods. Their diet consists mainly of small invertebrates and fish.

The family Synbranchidae contains several genera, including Monopterus and Synbranchus. Species within this family can vary significantly in size, with some reaching over a meter in length. They are sometimes consumed as food in certain regions and can be considered pests in aquaculture due to their predatory nature. Their reproductive biology is diverse, with some species exhibiting sequential hermaphroditism.