Need ID, strange eel like critter

[Searcaigh]

Found this eel like critter during a safety stop in midwater

Depth 6-7m
Water temp 31C
Location off the east coast of UAE in the Gulf of Oman
Estimated size around 15cm (6 in)

Side shot (not so sharp)

Head shot, eye in focus, extremely close the mouth

Thinking along the lines of a juvenile snake eel.

Anyone have any idea?

 

[T.C.]

It does not appear to be a snake.

 

[Searcaigh]

It does not appear to be a snake.

And neither is a snake eel

 

[KeithG]

Reminds me of some sort of conger eel.

 

[Searcaigh]

I've had confirmation from a source in Oman that it is a juvenile snake eel.

I have photographed adult snake eels in SE Asia where normally only the head sticks out of the sand. The first time I saw one it looked like the end of a banana sticking out of the sand.

Ophichthidae - Wikipedia

 

[chillyinCanada]

The ones I've seen out on the sand in North Sulawesi were quite beautifully marked.

 

[T.C.]

And neither is a snake eel

Well, you asked for an idea. I ruled out snakes.