True eels (Order Anguilliformes)
The wolf eel resembles true eels in appearance but is not a true eel taxonomically.
Wolf Eel
Anarrhichthys ocellatus
The wolf eel is a North Pacific marine fish in the wolf-fish family, not a true eel and the sole species in its genus.
Last Updated Mar 9, 2026 · 3 sources
Species Guide
What to know about wolf eels
A clean field guide focused on habitat, identification, behavior, and conservation context without burying the useful parts.
The wolf eel (Anarrhichthys ocellatus) is a species of marine ray-finned fish in the family Anarhichadidae, found in the North Pacific Ocean. Despite its common name and resemblance, it is not a true eel. It is the only species in the monotypic genus Anarrhichthys.
The strongest linked planning options currently surface around destinations such as Monterey Bay, Ari Atoll, Tioman Island and countries such as United States of America, Canada, Malaysia for divers building trips around wolf eels.
Identification
How to identify wolf eels
The visual markers divers can use underwater, plus the species most likely to cause confusion.
Common lookalikes
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Responsible Encounters
How to dive with wolf eels
Conservation-minded guidance for divers who want the encounter without adding pressure.
