Anguilla rostrata, commonly known as the American eel, is a species of eel found in North America. It is characterized by its elongated, snake-like body and can grow up to 1.5 meters in length. This species is primarily found in freshwater rivers and streams but migrates to the ocean to spawn in the Sargasso Sea. The American eel has a complex life cycle, beginning as a larva known as a leptocephalus. After hatching, these larvae drift with ocean currents before migrating to freshwater habitats. They are known for their ability to travel long distances and can live for several years, making them an important part of aquatic ecosystems.