Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Snowflake Eels


It is common to see snowflake eels when snorkeling on Kauai because they are out foraging during the day. Did you know that Snowflake Eels do not have razor sharp teeth like many of their relatives? Instead, they have more flattened pebble-like teeth that help them grind their prey (usually crabs).

This Snowflake eel was spotted at Kukuiula Harbor amongst the sand and coral heads just off shore in shallow water. Snowflake eels are also commonly spotted in shallow tidepools. I have seen them in numerous locations around the island including several areas near Poipu Beach Park, Salt Pond and even in the Lydgate Ponds.