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Conger

Conger is a genus of marine eels in the family Congridae, subfamily Congrinae, comprising approximately 17 species that rank among the largest eels globally, with maximum lengths ranging from 25 cm to 300 cm total length (TL).^[1] These eels are distinguished by their elongated, snake-like bodies, scaleless and smooth skin, large terminal mouths armed with numerous sharp, conical teeth arranged in multiple rows, and a continuous fringe formed by the fused dorsal, caudal, and anal fins.^[2] The genus is predominantly benthic and nocturnal, inhabiting a variety of substrates including rocky reefs, sandy bottoms, wrecks, and artificial structures from intertidal zones to depths over 1,000 m across temperate and tropical regions of the Atlantic, Indo-Pacific, and Pacific Oceans.^[1]^[2] The most prominent species, the European conger (Conger conger), is native to the northeast Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea, where it grows up to 300 cm TL and weighs over 70 kg, making it the heaviest known eel species.^[2] Other notable members include the American conger (C. oceanicus) in the western Atlantic, reaching 230 cm TL, and the whitespotted conger (C. myriaster) in the northwest Pacific, which supports significant commercial fisheries.^[1] Congers are opportunistic carnivores, primarily feeding on smaller fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods using ambush tactics from crevices or burrows.^[3]^[2] Reproductively, Conger species have a marine life cycle in which adults migrate to deep oceanic waters (often 500–4,000 m) for a single spawning event after maturing at ages of 5–15 years, following which they typically die.^[2] The pelagic leptocephalus larvae, which can drift for months, metamorphose into juvenile eels before settling in coastal habitats.^[2] While not commercially dominant like freshwater eels, several Conger species are fished for food in regions such as Europe, Asia, and the Americas, though overexploitation and bycatch of juveniles pose conservation challenges.^[3] Recent genomic studies have enhanced understanding of their evolutionary biology and population dynamics, aiding management efforts.^[4]

Taxonomy

Etymology

The term "conger" originates from the Latin conger, borrowed from the Ancient Greek góngros (γόγγρος), an ancient name for a type of sea eel, possibly derived from gongýlos (γογγύλος), meaning "round," alluding to the eel's cylindrical shape. This etymological root emphasizes the marine and elongated nature of these eels, with the word entering English via Old French congre during the Middle English period, around the 13th to 14th century.^[5]^[6] In scientific nomenclature, the genus Conger was formally established in 1758 by Carl Linnaeus in his Systema Naturae, where he described the type species as Muraena conger (now Conger conger), the European conger. The family Congridae, encompassing the genus, derives its name directly from the Latin conger, reflecting the group's characteristic eels.^[7]^[8] Common names for conger eels have evolved across cultures, often tied to their culinary or ecological roles; for instance, in Japan, the whitespotted conger (Conger myriaster) is commonly called anago (穴子), a term specifically denoting saltwater eels used in dishes like sushi and tempura. The genus Conger is classified within the order Anguilliformes, the true eels.

Recognized Species

The genus Conger currently comprises 18 valid species of marine congrid eels, distributed across tropical to temperate waters of the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans.^[9]

Species	Common Name	Maximum Length (cm TL)	Distribution Notes
C. cinereus	Longfin African conger	140	Indo-Pacific
C. conger	European conger	300	Eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean
C. erebennus	-	134	Western Indian Ocean
C. esculentus	Grey conger	160	Western Central Atlantic
C. japonicus	Beach conger	140	Northwest Pacific
C. jordani	-	150	Indo-West Pacific
C. macrocephalus	-	80	Western Pacific
C. marginatus	Hawaiian mustache conger	137	Central Pacific
C. melanopterus	-	Unknown	Indian Ocean (southwest India)
C. monganius	-	100	Indian Ocean
C. myriaster	Whitespotted conger	100	Northwest Pacific
C. oceanicus	American conger	230	Western Atlantic
C. oligoporus	-	25	Indo-West Pacific
C. orbignianus	Argentine conger	112	Western Atlantic
C. philippinus	-	28	Western Pacific
C. triporiceps	Manytooth conger	100	Western Atlantic
C. verreauxi	Silver conger	200	Indo-Pacific
C. wilsoni	Cape conger	150	Indo-West Pacific

These species are distinguished primarily through meristic features, including vertebral counts ranging from 131–165 across the genus and pectoral fin ray counts of 14–21, as detailed in foundational taxonomic revisions.^[10] For instance, C. conger typically exhibits 150–163 total vertebrae and 17–20 pectoral fin rays, while C. myriaster has 142–148 vertebrae and 15–18 pectoral rays.^[10]^[11] Post-2000 taxonomic work has incorporated molecular analyses, such as DNA barcoding with cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequences, to validate distinctions and resolve synonyms; a key example is the 2018 study in Taiwan that identified specimens previously labeled as C. japonicus as misidentifications of C. myriaster based on morphological and genetic evidence.^[11]

Formerly Placed Species

Several species previously assigned to the genus Conger have been reclassified into other genera within the family Congridae based on detailed morphological examinations, particularly differences in dentition, head structure, and vertebral counts. For instance, the bandtooth conger, originally described as Conger balearicus by Delaroche in 1809, is now recognized as Ariosoma balearicum due to its distinct banded teeth on the vomer and narrower head compared to typical Conger species.^[12] Similarly, Conger analis Poey, 1860, has been transferred to Ariosoma anale, reflecting variations in jaw morphology and preanal fin length that align it more closely with the Ariosoma group.^[12] Another example is the largehead conger, initially placed under Conger varidens Garman, 1899, but reclassified as Bathycongrus varidens owing to its disproportionately large head, robust dentition, and higher vertebral counts (typically 140–150 versus 120–130 in Conger).^[13] These reclassifications stem primarily from morphological revisions, such as Kanazawa's 1958 study, which redefined genus boundaries by emphasizing osteological features like the shape of the supraoccipital and interorbital width, excluding several taxa that lacked the characteristic robust cranium of Conger.^[14] Subsequent genetic analyses in the 1990s and 2000s, including mitochondrial DNA sequencing, supported these morphological distinctions by revealing phylogenetic divergences, such as between Conger and Ariosoma clades with sequence divergences exceeding 10% in cytochrome b genes.^[15] These efforts have narrowed the Conger genus from over 30 historical inclusions (many synonyms or misplacements) to 18 recognized species as of 2023, enhancing taxonomic precision and clarifying evolutionary relationships within Congridae.^[16]

Physical Description

Morphology

Conger eels exhibit a scaleless body covered in smooth, mucous-secreting skin, which facilitates movement through crevices and reduces friction in their benthic habitats. The body is markedly elongated and cylindrical, tapering gradually toward the tail, with a rounded anterior profile that transitions to slight compression posteriorly; this anguilliform shape enhances burrowing and maneuvering in rocky substrates.^[17]^[18] The head is notably large, comprising up to one-sixth of the total length, featuring a broad, slightly depressed profile with a terminal mouth that extends beyond the eye. The mouth is equipped with strong, recurved conical teeth arranged primarily in a single row on each jaw, sometimes supplemented by a second inner row, adapted for grasping prey. The dorsal, caudal, and anal fins are continuous, forming a single fringe around the posterior body that originates behind the pectoral fin base and lacks separate pelvic fins, providing undulatory propulsion.^[19]^[20]^[2] Internally, conger eels possess reduced gill rakers, typically numbering 8-9 on the lower arch, consisting of short denticles rather than elaborate structures, consistent with their carnivorous diet that does not rely on filtration. The jaws bear a single primary row of teeth, reinforcing the predatory morphology. Sensory adaptations include large eyes suited for low-light environments, with rod cells exhibiting a blue-shifted maximum absorbance wavelength of 487 nm to optimize vision in dim conditions. A complete lateral line system runs along the body, comprising canal neuromasts that detect hydrodynamic vibrations and water movements, aiding navigation and prey localization in turbid or dark waters.^[21]^[22]^[17] Adults of the genus typically reach lengths of 1-3 meters, underscoring their robust build relative to many other eels.^[23]

Size and Coloration

Conger eels exhibit significant variation in size across species, with the European conger (Conger conger) representing the largest, attaining a maximum total length of 300 cm and weight of 110 kg, although individuals commonly measure 100–150 cm.^[23] Most other species in the genus, such as the American conger (C. oceanicus) and the grey conger (C. esculentus), reach maximum lengths of 1–2 m, with weights typically under 40 kg.^[24]^[25] Growth in Conger species is relatively slow overall, with maturity achieved between 5 and 15 years of age and maximum ages exceeding 20 years in some populations.^[2] Juveniles display more rapid initial growth compared to adults, though rates vary by region; for instance, von Bertalanffy growth parameters for female C. conger in Iberian waters indicate an asymptotic length of 265 cm and a growth coefficient of 0.07, reflecting decelerating growth after early stages.^[26] In the Adriatic Sea, C. conger reaches lengths of approximately 50–70 cm by age 2–3, with overall annual increments averaging around 10 cm after the first few years.^[27] Coloration in Conger eels serves adaptive purposes, including camouflage in rocky or sandy substrates. Adults are typically dark gray to black dorsally, transitioning to paler gray, white, or pale golden ventrally, with black margins on the dorsal and anal fins.^[2] In shallower waters, C. conger often appears gray-blue or gray-black overall, while deeper-water specimens may show lighter brown backs with gray sides.^[2] Juveniles resemble adults but are generally lighter in tone; some species, like the whitespotted conger (C. myriaster), feature white spots or mottling on a dark background for enhanced concealment among reef structures.^[28]^[29]

Distribution and Habitat

Geographic Range

The genus Conger exhibits a cosmopolitan distribution across temperate and tropical waters of the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans, with 17 recognized species showing regional endemism.^[30] In the Atlantic, the European conger (C. conger) is widespread in the northeastern region from Norway and Iceland southward to Senegal, including the Mediterranean and Black Seas.^[31] The American conger (C. oceanicus) occupies the northwestern Atlantic, ranging from Cape Cod, Massachusetts, to northeastern Florida and the northern Gulf of Mexico.^[32] In the western central Atlantic, the grey conger (C. esculentus) is reported from Cuba and Jamaica, likely extending along northern South America. In the Indo-Pacific, the whitespotted conger (C. myriaster) is endemic to the northwest Pacific, primarily off Japan, the Korean Peninsula, and China. The beach conger (C. japonicus) shares a similar range in the northwest Pacific, including Taiwan. Further east, the Hawaiian mustache conger (C. marginatus) is restricted to the eastern central Pacific around Hawaii and Johnston Island. In the southwest Pacific and eastern Indian Ocean, species like C. verreauxi occur from southern Australia to New Zealand.^[33] The longfin African conger (C. cinereus) spans a broad Indo-Pacific expanse from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Marquesas and Easter Islands, north to southern Japan.^[34] Conger species typically inhabit benthic environments from shallow coastal waters to depths of 1,000 m, though some records indicate occurrences beyond this; for instance, C. conger has been documented from 0–500 m generally but up to 1,171 m in the eastern Ionian Sea.^[31] Adults are predominantly sedentary, maintaining territories on the continental shelf, while their leptocephalus larvae undergo extensive pelagic dispersal via ocean currents, traveling thousands of kilometers from deep-water spawning sites to recruitment areas.^[35] These eels often prefer rocky substrates for shelter in their adult phase.^[31]

Environmental Preferences

Conger eels, belonging to the genus Conger, are predominantly demersal species that inhabit benthic environments, favoring hard substrates such as rocky reefs, caves, and crevices where they can seek shelter during the day.^[2] While some species, like the whitespotted conger (C. myriaster), tolerate softer sandy or muddy bottoms, the genus generally exhibits a preference for structured, rocky habitats over unconsolidated sand or mud, which provide hiding spots and protection from predators.^[36] These eels are often associated with coastal and shelf areas, extending into deeper continental slopes.^[31] In terms of abiotic conditions, conger eels thrive in temperate marine waters with temperatures typically ranging from 4°C to 25°C, depending on the species and region; for instance, the European conger (C. conger) prefers cooler waters between 4.4°C and 14.4°C, while the American conger (C. oceanicus) tolerates warmer subtropical conditions up to 25.2°C.^[31]^[32] Salinity levels are characteristic of full marine environments, generally 30–35 ppt, as these eels are strictly oceanic and show resilience to minor fluctuations in salinity. They occupy low-light conditions suited to their nocturnal lifestyle, with depth ranges from shallow coastal zones (0–10 m for juveniles) to deeper waters up to 500 m for adults, though some records extend to 1,100 m or more.^[2]^[31] Conger eels demonstrate physiological adaptations to the pressures and oxygen dynamics of deeper habitats, including a highly impermeable swimbladder wall that restricts gas diffusion (such as oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen), enabling buoyancy control under hydrostatic pressures exceeding 50 atmospheres.^[37] This adaptation supports their descent to depths where oxygen levels may be lower, and studies on related eel species indicate enhanced membrane fluidity adjustments that reduce oxygen consumption under pressure, allowing sustained activity in hypoxic deeper waters.^[38]

Biology

Behavior

Conger eels, particularly the European conger (Conger conger), exhibit predominantly nocturnal behavior, remaining inactive during the day by hiding in crevices, holes, or "eel pits" among rocky or sandy bottoms, wrecks, or artificial structures.^[2] This resting strategy minimizes exposure to diurnal predators and conserves energy, with individuals emerging after dark to forage across the seafloor.^[2] They are largely solitary, maintaining individual territories and rarely interacting with conspecifics except in shared dens with other species like moray eels, though relationships with others are often aggressive.^[39]^[40] Territorial defense in conger eels is aggressive, with individuals vigorously repelling intruders through displays of open-mouthed gaping and lunging to assert dominance over their lair or hunting grounds.^[39] This behavior ensures exclusive access to shelter and resources, and congers can inflict severe bites if provoked, making them formidable in close encounters.^[39] Such territoriality contributes to their low-density populations in suitable habitats. Locomotion in conger eels relies on anguilliform undulatory swimming, where lateral waves propagate along the elongated body to propel the fish forward efficiently over varied substrates.^[41] They are capable of backward motion by reversing the direction of these undulatory waves, primarily utilizing the continuous dorsal, anal, and caudal fins for maneuverability in confined spaces like dens or reefs.^[41] Maximum sustained swimming speeds reach approximately 1.1 body lengths per second in species like the whitespotted conger (C. myriaster).^[42] Social structure among conger eels is minimally gregarious, with adults rarely forming shoals and preferring isolation within their territories; juveniles may occasionally aggregate in shallow nursery areas but transition to solitary habits as they mature.^[40] In response to threats, congers typically retreat by burrowing deeper into crevices or wedging their bodies to block access, relying on their strong musculature for secure anchorage.^[43] This nocturnal activity pattern aligns with opportunistic feeding on benthic prey under cover of darkness.^[2]

Reproduction

Conger eels are dioecious, exhibiting separate sexes with external fertilization during spawning events in deep offshore waters.^[44] Spawning occurs in summer at depths ranging from 600 to 4,000 meters, though exact locations remain poorly documented for most species.^[2] Females are semelparous, releasing eggs in a single lifetime spawning event before dying, with no parental care provided post-spawning.^[45] Sexual maturity is typically reached between 5 and 15 years of age, with females growing larger than males and thus maturing at greater sizes.^[44] Each female produces 3 to 8 million eggs, released in multiple batches during the spawning period to maximize fertilization success in the open ocean.^[45] Fertilized eggs hatch into leptocephalus larvae, which are transparent, leaf-shaped, and adapted for a pelagic lifestyle. These larvae remain in the open ocean for 6 to 12 months, drifting with currents before metamorphosing into glass eels that settle in coastal habitats. This extended pelagic phase facilitates larval dispersal, contributing to the broad geographic range of the genus.

Diet and Feeding

Conger eels (Conger spp.) are carnivorous predators with a diet dominated by fish, supplemented by crustaceans and cephalopods. In the Adriatic Sea, fish constitute the primary prey, comprising the majority of stomach contents, followed by crustaceans such as shrimp and crabs, and cephalopods like squid.^[27] In Irish waters, the diet shifts regionally, with whiting (Merlangius merlangus) and other small demersal fish prevalent in inshore areas, while blue whiting (Micromesistius poutassou) dominates offshore.^[46] Similarly, in the Eastern Ionian Sea, fish account for over 70% of the diet by volume, with decapod crustaceans (e.g., Natantia shrimp and Brachyura crabs) and cephalopods appearing as secondary items, often detected in intestinal contents.^[47] These eels exhibit opportunistic feeding, including scavenging on available carrion to supplement active predation.^[48] Feeding occurs primarily at night, allowing conger eels to exploit low-visibility conditions for hunting.^[44] They are benthic ambush predators, typically lurking in rocky crevices or dens before striking at passing prey with rapid lunges. Their powerful jaws, lined with recurved conical teeth arranged in dense rows, enable them to seize and crush hard-shelled crustaceans or slippery cephalopods effectively.^[20] Dietary preferences show ontogenetic shifts, with smaller juveniles consuming plankton and minute invertebrates before transitioning to larger fish and crustaceans as adults.^[49] This progression aligns with increasing body size and habitat use, enhancing foraging efficiency in deeper, more complex environments.^[50]

Human Interactions

Fisheries

Conger eels, primarily species such as Conger conger in the Atlantic and Mediterranean and Conger myriaster in the Pacific, are targeted in commercial fisheries using longlines, traps (including pots and eel-tubes), and gillnets deployed in coastal and nearshore waters. In Europe, significant fisheries for C. conger operate in the UK and Portugal, where longlining is a dominant method in multispecies artisanal fleets along the Algarve coast, often targeting conger alongside hake and other demersal species. In Japan, C. myriaster supports important coastal fisheries, with pots and specialized eel-tubes accounting for the majority of catches in regions like the Seto Inland Sea.^[51]^[52]^[53] Global capture production of conger eels has declined significantly over the past decade from around 18,500 tonnes to a record low of 9,507 tonnes in 2020, with post-2020 figures for major species like C. myriaster remaining around 12,000-13,000 tonnes as of 2022; the majority of landings are from the Mediterranean Sea and East Asia, and the fishery peaked at 19,036 tonnes in 1994. These yields contribute to the economic value of demersal fisheries in key regions, where conger eels are classified as a medium-priced commodity, supporting local processing and export markets.^[51]^[23]^[21] Commercial exploitation of conger eels dates back to Roman times, as indicated by archaeological evidence of C. conger remains in sites like Herculaneum, suggesting early targeted fishing in the Mediterranean. In modern contexts, regulations focus on size limits to manage stocks, with no EU-wide minimum conservation reference size (MCRS) established, though local measures apply, such as a 58 cm minimum in Jersey, Wales, and certain UK inshore areas.^[54]^[51]^[55]

Culinary and Cultural Uses

Conger eels are valued in various global cuisines for their firm texture and mild flavor, often prepared through grilling, frying, or stewing methods. In Japanese cuisine, conger eel, known as anago, is commonly featured in dishes like kabayaki, where it is broiled with a sweet soy-based sauce and served over rice, or as tempura, lightly battered and deep-fried for a crispy exterior.^[56]^[57] In Mediterranean traditions, such as Portuguese caldeirada, conger eel is incorporated into hearty fish stews simmered with tomatoes, onions, and herbs, while in Chile, it is fried as congrio frito, coated in seasoned flour and pan-fried until golden.^[58]^[59] These preparations highlight the eel's versatility, with the tail often reserved for stocks due to its bony structure, and the body cut into steaks for direct cooking.^[58] Nutritionally, conger eel provides high-quality protein, averaging 18-22.76 grams per 100 grams, supporting muscle maintenance and overall health.^[60]^[61] It is also a notable source of omega-3 fatty acids, with levels contributing to a favorable n-3/n-6 ratio, particularly in the tail portion, which promotes cardiovascular benefits and anti-inflammatory effects.^[61]^[62] Culturally, conger eels hold significance in various traditions, particularly in Japanese coastal communities where anago features in festivals and daily meals, and is used in traditional remedies to boost vitality due to its nutrient profile.^[57]^[63] In markets, fresh conger eel commands premium prices, especially in Asia, where wholesale values in China range from $9.83 to $15.76 per kilogram (as of 2025), reflecting demand for live or high-quality specimens in sushi and specialty dishes.^[64] Similar pricing in Thailand, at $7.30 to $8.80 per kilogram (as of 2025), underscores its status as a desirable seafood, often sourced as targeted catch or bycatch in regional fisheries.^[65]

Conservation

Threats

Conger eels, particularly the European conger (Conger conger), inhabit complex benthic habitats such as rocky reefs, caves, and wrecks, which are vulnerable to habitat loss from anthropogenic activities. Coastal development and destructive fishing practices like bottom trawling physically damage these structures by scraping the seabed, leading to degradation of essential shelter and foraging areas. In the Mediterranean Sea, bottom trawling has contributed to significant declines in C. conger populations, with landings dropping from 991 tonnes in 2006 to 172 tonnes in 2019, reflecting broader habitat destruction and reduced abundance in affected regions.^[66]^[67] Overfishing poses a major threat through both targeted capture and bycatch in demersal fisheries, depleting spawning stocks and disrupting population dynamics. C. conger is frequently caught as bycatch in bottom trawls and longlines across the Northeast Atlantic and Mediterranean, where high discard rates exacerbate mortality without benefiting fisheries. Additionally, pollution from heavy metals bioaccumulates in C. conger tissues due to their benthic lifestyle and long lifespan, with studies in Italian coastal waters revealing elevated concentrations of metals like mercury and cadmium linked to industrial and urban runoff, potentially impairing reproduction and health.^[68]^[69] Climate change further compounds these pressures by altering ocean conditions critical to C. conger life cycles. Ocean warming can shift larval dispersal patterns by influencing currents and temperature gradients in spawning grounds, potentially reducing recruitment success in temperate regions. Ocean acidification, resulting from increased CO₂ absorption, disrupts acid-base regulation in C. conger, increasing energetic costs for ionoregulation and affecting larval development and metabolism, as demonstrated in experimental studies simulating future pH levels.^[70]^[71]

Status and Protection

The genus Conger encompasses approximately 17 species, most of which are classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List due to their wide distributions and lack of major threats across their ranges.^[72] The European conger (Conger conger), the largest and most commercially significant species, holds a global status of Least Concern based on a 2011 assessment, though this has not been updated as of 2025; regional evaluations in the Atlantic and Mediterranean indicate concerns due to observed declines in intensively fished areas, as evidenced by reduced catch rates and biomass indicators.^[73]^[51] These declines are particularly noted in the Northeast Atlantic, where historical landing data show a decline to around 9,500 tonnes globally in 2020.^[51] Conservation protections for Conger species focus on fisheries management and habitat safeguards. In the European Union, C. conger is subject to regulatory measures including minimum landing sizes (e.g., 58 cm in some member states) and gear restrictions to mitigate bycatch, though it lacks a dedicated total allowable catch (TAC) quota; an example of effort controls includes annual limits approximating 500 tonnes in certain shared stocks to prevent overexploitation.^[74]^[75] Marine protected areas (MPAs) encompassing rocky reef habitats—key refuges for conger eels—provide no-take zones in regions like the Azores and Mediterranean, enhancing local population resilience.^[76] Ongoing research supports these efforts through tagging programs that track individual movements and growth, informing stock structure models in the North Atlantic. Looking ahead, the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) plays a central role in monitoring C. conger stocks via annual surveys and advisory frameworks to ensure sustainable harvesting, emphasizing ecosystem-based approaches. In Asia, particularly Japan, preliminary aquaculture trials for Conger myriaster (a close relative) explore controlled breeding to supplement wild fisheries and alleviate pressure on natural populations, with research focusing on spawning induction and larval rearing.^[77] These initiatives, combined with brief acknowledgments of overfishing risks, underscore a proactive stance toward maintaining Conger populations amid growing commercial demand.^[45]

References

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Fish Identification
### List of Species in Genus Conger
[2]
Conger eel (Conger conger) - MarLIN
Conger conger is a long, powerful fish with scaleless, smooth skin. They are usually grey-blue or grey-black in colour with a white or pale golden coloured ...
[3]
Conger - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics
Conger eel (Conger conger) is an opportunistic predator that generally eats smaller fish. The dentition consists of numerous, closely packed, sharp teeth.
[4]
The genome sequence of the European conger ... - PubMed Central
The genome resource for the Conger eel adds valuable information to understanding their biology and population genetics, which could help in their conservation ...
[5]
Conger - Etymology, Origin & Meaning
Conger, from Latin and Greek gongros (Pre-Greek), means a large, voracious salt-water eel species. Origin reflects its marine nature and ancient roots.
[6]
[PDF] Family CONGRIDAE - The ETYFish Project
Conger. Bosc 1817 tautonymous with Muraena conger Linnaeus 1758, from góngros. (γόγγρος), derived from gongýlos (γογγύλος), round, an ancient Greek name for a ...
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World Register of Marine Species - Conger conger (Linnaeus, 1758)
Jan 15, 2008 · Conger conger (Linnaeus, 1758) · Biota · Animalia (Kingdom) · Chordata (Phylum) · Vertebrata (Subphylum) · Gnathostomata (Infraphylum) ...
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FAMILY Details for Congridae - Conger and garden eels - FishBase
Nov 29, 2012 · Etymology, : Latin, conger = conger ( Ref. 45335) ... Senior/Junior synonym, Combination. Congrinae. Conger conger (Linnaeus, 1758).
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[PDF] Proceedings of the United States National Museum
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World Register of Marine Species - Conger Bosc, 1817 - WoRMS
Species Conger analis Poey, 1860 accepted as Ariosoma anale (Poey, 1860); Species Conger auratus Costa, 1844 accepted as Ariosoma balearicum (Delaroche, 1809) ...Missing: reclassified | Show results with:reclassified
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Nov 14, 2014 · We highlight some of the 83 mitogenomic papers by subject and briefly refer to the phylogenetic and evolutionary significances of those studies.Phylogenetic Background · Use Of Mitogenomic Data In... · Gene Rearrangement As A...
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A new species of the congrid eel genus Conger (Anguilliformes
Review of the congrid eel genus Conger (Anguilliformes: Congridae) in Taiwan. Article. Jul 2018. David G. Smith · Hsuan Ching Ho. The congrid eel ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[16]
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/368712919_A_new_species_of_the_congrid_eel_genus_Conger_Anguilliformes_Congridae_from_the_southwest_coast_of_India
[17]
Family: CONGRIDAE, Conger Eel, Conger Eels, Garden Eels
Congers are medium sized to large eels (up to 2 m); elongate to very elongate, rounded at front, compressed behind; anus on front half of animal; large eyes.Missing: anatomy morphology scaleless teeth rakers swim bladder
[18]
A New Conger-like Eel, Muraenesox yamaguchiensis, from the ...
Gill 4 ; gill rakers absent. Lateral line well developed, the insersion half way between snout and base of pectoral fin. Dorsal inserted a little before the ...
[19]
Conger Conger - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics
First, specializations of the anterior part of the vertebral column allow the first 10 vertebrae to be raised almost vertically and to lift the cranium high.
[20]
Whitespotted conger - Aquatic species
Tip of snout blint, protruding beyond mouth. 8-9 gillrakers. Mouth rather large, the gape reaching to a vertical through posterior margin of eye. Upper lip with ...
[21]
A comparative study on the visual adaptations of four species of ...
May 11, 2011 · For example, the conger eel, which migrates vertically daily possesses rod cells with a blue-shifted λmax (487 nm) to adapt to both dim light ...
[22]
Conger conger summary page
### Summary of Conger conger Size, Growth, Age, and Appearance
[23]
Conger oceanicus summary page
### Summary of Conger oceanicus Size, Length, Weight, and Coloration
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https://www.fishbase.se/summary/Conger-oceanicus.html
[25]
Age, growth and reproductive biology of the European conger eel ( Conger conger) from the Atlantic Iberian waters | Request PDF
Summary of each segment:
[26]
The age, growth and feeding habits of the European conger eel ...
The maximum age of conger eels was 8 years, with most at 5. They grow one annulus per year, and their diet is mainly fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods.
[27]
Conger myriaster, Whitespotted conger : fisheries, gamefish
Vertebrae: 142 - 148. Head and body with white spots. Lower jaw moderate in size, premaxillary teeth not exposed when closed.<|separator|>
[28]
Conger Eel - Marine Life Encyclopedia - Habitas
Congers are usually slatey blue in colour with a lighter underside. They are large marine eels that can grow to approximately 2.75m in length although most are ...
[29]
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Identification by pictures: If you already know the Family, go to Search FishBase, select Family and click on 'Identification by pictures' to display all ...
[30]
European conger - fisheries, gamefish, aquarium - FishBase
A nocturnal (Ref. 12382) predator of fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods (Ref. 6521). Like other species of the group, it reproduces only once in its life.
[31]
Conger oceanicus, American conger : fisheries, gamefish - FishBase
Conger oceanicus, or American conger, is a marine, eel-like fish found in the Western Atlantic, with a max length of 230cm, and is a nocturnal predator.
[32]
Conger verreauxi, Conger : fisheries - FishBase
Occurs around rocky areas. Life cycle and mating behavior Maturity | Reproduction | Spawning | Eggs | Fecundity | LarvaeMissing: valid | Show results with:valid
[33]
Conger cinereus, Longfin African conger - FishBase
Conger cinereus, or Longfin African conger, is a marine eel found in the Indo-Pacific, with a max length of 140cm, and a common length of 50cm. It has a ...
[34]
https://www.fishbase.se/summary/Conger-cinereus
[35]
Whitespotted Conger (Conger myriaster) - iNaturalist
C. myriaster inhabits shallow sea bottom sand and mud. It is also consumed as food and is a common item on menus in Japan and abroad as anago. Its ...
[36]
The Secret Life and Precarious Future of Conger Eels - ZOOVATE
Aug 22, 2025 · Nocturnality: Their secretive, daytime hiding and nocturnal foraging are key to avoiding larger diurnal predators and surprising their prey.
[37]
The Permeability to Gases of the Swimbladder of the Conger Eel ...
May 11, 2009 · The permeability properties of the silvery walls of the swimbladders of eels (Conger conger and Anguilla anguilld) have been studied.
[38]
(PDF) Hydrostatic pressure effects on eel mitochondrial functioning ...
Aug 9, 2025 · Previous studies have evidenced that eels are able to acclimatize to pressure through membrane fluidity adjustment. However these studies were ...
[39]
Conger eel • Conger conger • Fish sheet - Fishipedia
The conger eel is a fish solitary naturally found near the bottom. This species is carnivorous. This fish lives mainly at night.
[40]
European conger - Facts, Diet, Habitat & Pictures on Animalia.bio
It is usually present on rough, rocky, broken ground, close to the coast when young, moving to deeper waters when adult. European conger habitat map. Biome.
[41]
Eel Fact Sheet | Blog | Nature - PBS
Sep 9, 2021 · Eels have a continuous dorsal, anal, and caudal fin that runs around the tail tip. ... To swim backwards, they reverse the direction of the wave.
[42]
Swimming physiology of European silver eels (Anguilla anguilla L.)
Swimming performance of silver eels is severely impaired by the swim-bladder parasite Anguillicola crassus. ... Reproductive biology of the conger eel from ...
[43]
Age, growth and reproductive biology of the European conger eel ...
This work presents for the first time, data on age, reproductive biology and endocrinology of conger eels captured in the west coast of the Iberian Peninsula.Missing: genus taxonomic
[44]
Age, growth and reproductive status of the European conger eel ...
In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in the European conger eel, Conger conger (Linnaeus, 1758), as both a commercial and an angling species ...
[45]
Analysis of the stomach contents of the European conger eel ...
Aug 12, 2004 · The primary diet in both areas was fish, with a complete species shift in diet between areas. The dominant species inshore were Merlangius ...
[46]
The diet and feeding ecology of Conger conger (L. 1758 ... - eJournals
Jun 21, 2013 · The diet of the European conger eel Conger conger was investigated for the first time in the Eastern Mediterranean. Fish dominated the European conger eel diet.Missing: sources | Show results with:sources
[47]
(PDF) Feeding ecology of conger eels (Conger conger) in north-east ...
Aug 7, 2025 · It is a large opportunistic predator, with a diet including a wide range of crustaceans, fish, and cephalopods [4] , which vary in relation to ...
[48]
(PDF) Habitat preference and feeding habits of juvenile whitespotted ...
Main stomach contents of the juveniles were crustaceans, polychaetes and teleosts. Crustaceans were strongly preferred being the most common and numerically ...Missing: invertebrates | Show results with:invertebrates
[49]
The age, growth and feeding habits of the European conger eel ...
Aug 6, 2025 · This study determined basic biological data for the European conger eel Conger conger (L.) population in the coastal waters of the eastern ...Missing: genus | Show results with:genus
[50]
Conger eel - Rating ID: 149 | Good Fish Guide
The conger eel has a rating of 5: Avoid, due to concerns about population biomass and lack of stock assessments. Trawling also damages seabed.
[51]
Species and size selectivity in a Portuguese multispecies artisanal ...
The primary objective of this study was to evaluate species and size selectivity in a multispecies artisanal long-line fishery in Algarve waters (south of ...<|separator|>
[52]
[PDF] COMPARATIVE SELECTIVTY AND CATCHABILTY OF POT AND ...
White-spotted conger eel (Conger myriaster) is an important species for coastal fisheries in. Japan, and caught mainly by pot, and eel-tube. Each year ...
[53]
Fish and Seafood from the Cardo V Sewer, Herculaneum
Nov 21, 2018 · (horse mackerels), Sardina pilchardus (sardine), Conger conger (conger ... fish and fish products from the Aegean sea in Roman times. In ...
[54]
[PDF] Conger eel (Conger conger)
May 19, 2021 · Studies have highlighted a sex segregation in the conger eel population where males and females occupy different depths. Immature females are ...
[55]
Anago no Tempura (Conger Eel Tempura) - Sudachi Recipes
1 hrMar 27, 2025 · Anago no Tempura is conger eel tempura, a popular Japanese dish. The recipe involves preparing the eel, making a batter, and frying.
[56]
アナゴ (Anago) Japanese Conger - Japanese Sea Fish - RyuKoch
Jul 22, 2025 · Anago, or Japanese conger eel, is a popular seafood in Japan known for its delicate white flesh and mild sweetness, thriving in the salty coastal waters.What Is Anago? - The... · Regional Specialties And... · Anago In Modern Japanese...
[57]
Conger eel recipes - BBC Food
The tail end of a conger eel is notoriously bony and is best used for stock. The rest can either be grilled, pan-fried or casseroled.
[58]
Chilean Congrio Frito (Fried Conger Eel) | DelishGlobe
22 minJan 10, 2025 · Gently place the coated conger eel fillets into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each fillet for 3–4 minutes per side, ...
[59]
Conger eel, raw - Matvaretabellen
Conger eel, raw. Energy in 100 g. Per 100 g 498 kJ (119 kcal). Energy → 498 kJ 119 kcal. Fat → 5.2 g. Protein → 18 g. Carbohydrate → 0
[60]
Nutritional value of different parts from sea eel (Astroconger ...
Sea eel was high-fat fish which contained 21.65% to 22.84% crude fat from part one to part seven. The seventh segment exhibited a lower moisture content (51.32 ...
[61]
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S096399692300947X
[62]
The Mystical Presence of the Conger Eel - Animal Omens
May 21, 2024 · In ancient Greek culture, the conger eel was sometimes considered a symbol of transformation and renewal. According to some myths, seeing an eel ...
[63]
What are the benefits of eating eel? - Vinmec
Mar 2, 2025 · Eel is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It may help with blood and qi damage, and can cure anemia, emaciation, and fatigue.Missing: conger | Show results with:conger
[64]
Price for Fresh Conger Eel in China - Tridge
The wholesale price of China Fresh Conger Eel has typically been between $9.83 and $15.76 USD per kg, or $4.46 to $7.15 USD per pound (lb).Missing: Asia | Show results with:Asia
[65]
Price for Fresh Conger Eel in Thailand - Tridge
The wholesale price of Thailand Fresh Conger Eel has typically been between $7.30 and $8.80 USD per kg, or $3.31 to $3.99 USD per pound (lb).Missing: Asia | Show results with:Asia
[66]
Food from the Depths of the Mediterranean: The Role of Habitats ...
For the European conger, a clear landing decrease was shown from 2006 (991 tonnes) to 2019 (172 tonnes) (Figure 4c). The exploitation of other deep-water ...
[67]
Effects of fisheries on marine biodiversity - Coastal Wiki
Sep 19, 2024 · Disruptive fishing techniques, including bottom trawling, are considered among the major causes of physical destruction of marine coastal ...
[68]
Conger eel | Good Fish Guide - Marine Conservation Society
... juveniles and not have had a chance to spawn ... Conger eel. (Conger conger). Avoid. Avoid. All sources of this species have ...Missing: diet | Show results with:diet
[69]
Heavy metal contamination in European conger (Conger conger ...
Dec 6, 2022 · One of the main targets of coastal artisanal fisheries is the European conger (Conger conger, Linnaeus 1758), a widely distributed benthic ...Missing: loss | Show results with:loss
[70]
Ecological sensitivity and vulnerability of fishing fleet landings to ...
Oct 17, 2022 · ... Conger conger and the increase in species with a lower sensitivity such as S. colias (Fig. 2c; Supplementary Fig. S1 online). The only ...
[71]
Elevated CO2 increases energetic cost and ion movement ... - Nature
Sep 29, 2016 · Regulation of the acid-base status during environmental hypercapnia in the marine teleost fish Conger conger . J. Exp. Biol. 107, 9–20 (1983) ...
[72]
https://www.iucnredlist.org/search?query=conger&searchType=species
[73]
The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species
Insufficient relevant content. The provided URL (https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/194969/2369649) does not contain specific details about Conger conger's conservation status, assessment date, population trends, regional assessments, threats, or protections. The page appears to be a template or placeholder with no substantive data.
[74]
Conger conger
Conger conger (Linnaeus, 1758) - More about this species: Commercial designations, Production methods and fishing gears, EU quality schemes and nutrition ...
[75]
Fish - DGRM
Conger - Conger conger. Minimum conservation reference size: 58 cm. Rules ... (b) ) specimens between 12 and 14 cm in length may be landed, in accordance with ...
[76]
(PDF) Population structure of the European conger ... - ResearchGate
Apr 20, 2021 · The greatest abundance was in depths between 300 and 600 m. Sizes ranged from 14 to 260 cm, with larger individuals around seamounts. Tagging ...Missing: tuensis | Show results with:tuensis
[77]
Discovery of a spawning area of the common Japanese conger ...
Feb 23, 2012 · Discovery of a spawning area of the common Japanese conger Conger myriaster along the Kyushu-Palau Ridge in the western North Pacific.