Scolecenchelys gymnota (Bleeker 1857) — Slender worm eel

Status at New Ireland. New record, based on NTUM 11418 (1 specimen, 72.5 mm SL, St. KR 34, between Big Nusa and Little Nusa islands, off Kavieng, Kavieng District, 2°34.561’S 150°46.348’E, 10–22 m depth, 7 June. 2014).

Distribution and habitat. New Ireland: 2.—General distribution: Red Sea and East Africa east to Marshall and Pitcairn islands, north to southern Japan, south to northern Australia. Sand bottom near reefs, 1–20 m depth. Marine.