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A viral video from Mauritius shows a ribbon eel, initially mistaken for a snake, gliding across the seabed. Ribbon eels, native to the Indo-Pacific, are capable of changing their colour and gender as they mature
Their unusual mouth has earned them the alternate name ‘Leaf Nosed Moray Eel’. (News18)
The depths of the seas are home to creatures so extraordinary that they might make you believe you’ve stumbled upon an alien world. Recent sightings of deep-sea creatures have fascinated both scientists and the public, providing thrilling glimpses into the enigmatic and often otherworldly realm that lies beneath the water’s surface. Whilst many of these animals seem otherworldly, appearances can be deceiving. A recent viral video perfectly illustrates this point.
The video, filmed by scuba divers, shows what appears to be a peculiar snake, hood raised, darting across the seabed. Its sinuous movement and gaping mouth certainly give that impression. However, this orange creature gliding over the pink sand is not a snake at all. A closer look reveals a thick, ribbon-like creature.
The Colour-Changing Ribbon Eel
This remarkable animal is a ribbon eel, a species known for its ability to change both colour and gender. In their youth, they are black with yellow dorsal fins. As they mature into males, their colour shifts to blue. Upon transitioning to females, they become yellow or orange. These colour changes allow scientists to estimate their age and gender.
The video, captioned as being filmed in Mauritius, was shared by the Instagram page Pubity (@pubity) and has garnered 3.6 million views. The comments section features another clip showcasing a blue-ribbon eel, indicating a male.
Unique Features And Appearance
Ribbon eels are native to the Indo-Pacific oceanic regions. Their unusual mouth has earned them the alternate name ‘Leaf Nosed Moray Eel’. Their slender dorsal fins further add to their unique appearance. Despite their wide, snake-like mouths, they are not aggressive creatures.
The Leaf-Nosed Moray Eel is a fascinating demonstration of nature’s creation and evolution. Its unique appearance and behavioural traits make it a compelling subject for both marine biologists and nature lovers.
