Documentation of Myrophis punctatus (Speckled Worm Eel) from Marine Waters of New York

Abstract

Recent accessions to the fish collection of the New York State Museum contained specimens of Myrophis punctatus (Speckled Worm Eel) from New York waters. This is the first published documentation of the species in New York based on specimens of the leptocephalus stage and juveniles. Its small size and behavior make the Speckled Worm Eel particularly difficult to sample with conventional gear, and it may be more abundant and widespread than historical observations indicate.