The enigma garden eel (Heteroconger enigmaticus) is a species of eel in the conger/garden eel family Congridae.
Taxonomy
The enigma garden eel was first described in 1999 by Peter Henry John Castle and John Ernest Randall. The species epithet enigmaticus is derived from the Greek 'αινιγματικός' (enigmatikós), meaning 'enigmatic.'
Description
This species is a tropical marine eel that is harmless to humans. It is medium to dark brown in colour. Males can reach a maximum total length of , while females can reach .
Distribution and habitat
The enigma garden eel is found in the western Pacific Ocean, including Indonesia and New Guinea. It dwells at a depth range of , and inhabits regions with dark, silty sand and seagrass (Holiphila species). Males can reach a maximum total length of , while females can reach .