Eels are a type of fish but they are often mistaken for snakes because of their long slender bodies. Unlike most fish eels have no scales and their skin is smooth. They range in color from brown to greenish-blue and can grow to be over two feet long.
Eels are found in both fresh and salt water all over the world. In the United States they are most commonly found in the Chesapeake Bay and along the Atlantic coast. Eels are bottom-dwellers and prefer to live in areas with lots of vegetation.
Eels are carnivorous and mostly eat other fish. They hunt at night and use their sense of smell to find their prey. Eels are capable of swimming backwards and forwards and can even climb trees and rocks in search of food.
Eels are interesting creatures and are often feared because of their snake-like appearance. However they are actually harmless to humans and make interesting pets. If you’re ever lucky enough to see an eel take a closer look and appreciate this amazing fish!
Are eels fish or snakes?
Eels are fish.
How do eels breathe?
Eels breathe through gills.
How do eels move?
Eels use their muscular bodies and fins to move through the water.
What do eels eat?
Eels are predators and they eat other fish crustaceans and mollusks.
Where do eels live?
Eels live in the ocean but they can also be found in freshwater rivers and lakes.
How big do eels get?
The largest eels can grow to be over 10 feet long!
What is the lifespan of an eel?
Eels can live for over 50 years.
What is the skin of an eel like?
Eels have slimy slippery skin that is covered in tiny scales.
What is the body of an eel like?
Eels have long slender bodies that taper off at the tail.
Do eels have fins?
Yes eels have fins that help them swim.
Do eels have gills?
Yes eels have gills that they use to breathe.
What is the life cycle of an eel?
Eels start their lives as larvae in the ocean.
They then travel to freshwater rivers and lakes where they live the rest of their lives.
How do eels reproduce?
Eels reproduce by releasing eggs and sperm into the water where the eggs are fertilized.
What is the danger of eels?
Eels can be dangerous because they can give electric shocks.
Are eels endangered?
Some species of eel are endangered because of overfishing and pollution.
