Pacific Garden Eel [Paraconger californiensis]
Description
Paraconger californiensis, also known as the Pacific Garden Eel, is a marine eel species native to the northeastern Pacific Ocean, from the Gulf of California to northern Peru. It is a benthic species that inhabits sandy sea floors in tropical to subtropical climates, specifically in coastal areas and coral reefs. It burrows into the sand with only its head protruding to catch passing zooplankton. With its brownish color and numerous white spots, the Pacific Garden Eel is able to blend in with its surroundings for protection.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Chordates
Chordata
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Fish
Actinopterygii
|
| Order |
Eels and Morays
Anguilliformes
|
| Family |
Conger Eels
Congridae
|
| Genus |
Paraconger
Paraconger
|