Scytalichthys miurus

Scytalichthys miurus (Jordan and Gilbert, 1882) is a species of actinopterygii belonging to the family Ophichthidae (order Anguilliformes).

Common name. In English this species is commonly known as the shorttail viper eel.

Taxonomy. The scientific name Scytalichthys miurus (Jordan and Gilbert, 1882) places this species within the actinopterygii lineage, among the most diverse vertebrates on Earth.

Description & ecology. As a member of Anguilliformes, Scytalichthys miurus exhibits the group's characteristic adaptations: They are elongate, eel-shaped fishes, mostly marine, with fused median fins and a small gill pore. Its biology reflects the demands of its particular habitat and life history within the family Ophichthidae.

Distribution. The species occurs within the natural range of its lineage; precise localities and depth preferences are documented in the taxonomic literature for Ophichthidae.

Human relevance. Like many fishes, it may be of interest to fisheries, aquaculture, the aquarium trade, or conservation, depending on its abundance and distribution.