The researchers believe that as eels grow older their vision in low light improves - thus allowing them to feed at night. Until the turn of the last century, even scientists thought eels were some type of snake. American eels may reach lengths of 4 feet, although males rarely exceed 2 feet, and weigh up to 7 pounds. Their ability to secrete a heavy white mucous when upset may lend to their reputation of being slimy. Those who often handle them, though, say they feel like soft velvet.
Eels have one of the most highly developed senses of smell among animals.
This might explain how they survive even in the dark, far reaches of caves. They are eaten in parts of Asia, Europe and Latin America. Many Japanese believe that eating eels rejuvenates the spirits worn down by the heat of summer. So they began celebrating an annual festival that features gorging on eels. Gourmets in Germany, Holland and England delight their palates with smoked eel, but the fish must be delivered live to European eateries where this delicacy is served.