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Anguilla marmorata
Anguillidae
Giant mottled eel
花鰻鱺
© Jeffery C.F. Chan
Size
Typically, 60 – 150cm encountered in Hong Kong, up to 200cm.
Identification
Elongated and thick body with scales embedded under skin resulting in a smooth and ‘slippery’ surface. Dorsal and anal fins conform as a single fin flowing along the belly, tail, and back. Dorsal side dark brown – olive in colour with dark mottled patterns and a pale white – yellow belly.
Description
Catadromous species, with juveniles entering small streams and large rivers to grow before returning to marine waters for reproduction. Usually found in upper reaches of streams as more mature juveniles or adults. It is a popular Chinese delicacy and has often been poached.
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