[4] The species epithet enigmaticus is derived from the Greek 'αινιγματικός' (enigmatikós), meaning 'enigmatic.

'[3] This species is a tropical marine eel that is harmless to humans.

Males can reach a maximum total length of 43.7 cm (17.2 in; 1.43 ft), while females can reach 41.6 cm (16.4 in; 1.36 ft).

[3] The enigma garden eel is found in the western Pacific Ocean, including Indonesia and New Guinea.

It dwells at a depth range of 3 to 25 m (9.8 to 82.0 ft), and inhabits regions with dark, silty sand and seagrass (Holiphila species).