Orangehead worm-eel explained

The orangehead worm-eel^[1] (Scolecenchelys xorae) is an eel in the family Ophichthidae (worm/snake eels).^[2] It was described by J.L.B. Smith in 1958, originally under the genus Muraenichthys.^[3] It is a marine, subtropical eel which is known from the western Indian Ocean, including South Africa, Réunion, Mauritius and Madagascar. Males can reach a maximum total length of 25cm (10inches).^[2]

Notes and References

1. http://www.fishbase.org/comnames/CommonNamesList.php?ID=15677&GenusName=Scolecenchelys&SpeciesName=xorae&StockCode=14818 Common names of Scolecenchelys xorae
2. http://www.fishbase.org/summary/Scolecenchelys-xorae.html Scolecenchelys xorae
3. Smith, J. L. B., 1958 (May) [ref. 12116] New and rare fishes from South Africa. South African Journal of Science v. 54 (no. 5): 123-129, Pl. 1.