Conger eels can grow to 1.8m, but go on increasing in weight after they have reached their full length, large ones can weigh up to 20kg. They are similar in shape to freshwater eels but they have a larger eye and the dorsal fin starts further forward, near the hind tip of the pectoral fins. It has a smooth scaleless skin. Young congers are grey, paler on the belly, adults become progressively darker and the oldest may be blue-black in colour.

It is found around southern Australia and New Zealand at depths of up to 100 metres. Found in rocky areas.

They are usually more active at night and swim actively over the bottom in search of prey. They feed on fishes, crabs and octopus.

Their life cycle is unknown, but involves migration to a spawning ground well north of N.Z. It is known that once they have spawned they die.
Caught commercially but in small numbers as bycatch.

NZ Marine Fishes: Paul