Ophichthus hirritus is an eel in the family Ophichthidae (worm/snake eels).[1] It was described by John E. McCosker in 2010.[2] It is a marine, deep water-dwelling eel which is known from the Seychelles Islands, in the western Indian Ocean. It is known to dwell at a depth of 600m (2,000feet). Males can reach a maximum total length of 52.8cm (20.8inches), while females can reach a maximum TL of 53.4cm (21inches).[1]
The species epithet "hirritus" means "to snarl like a dog" in Latin, and refers to the eel's facial structure.[1]