What is an "eel"?

An eel is a snake-like fish known for its slippery and serpentine appearance. They belong to the order Anguilliformes and can be found in both freshwater and saltwater habitats worldwide. Eels have a streamlined body covered in smooth, slimy skin, which aids in their swift and agile movements. They lack pelvic fins and have small, pectoral fins located near the head. Eels are predominantly carnivorous, feeding on a variety of prey such as fish, crustaceans, and small invertebrates. They are well-known for their ability to generate electric currents, which they use for communication, navigation, and hunting. Eels have a complex life cycle, with most species undergoing long migrations to reproduce. While some eels are prized as a delicacy in certain cuisines, others are valued for their ecological roles in maintaining the balance of aquatic ecosystems.