Fin's Fish Guide
The Argus moray (Muraena argus) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 120 cm.
Description
The argus moray is a moray (Muraenidae) from the eastern Pacific, off Central and South America. The species grows to about 120 cm and has an elongate, snake-shaped, scaleless body densely covered with numerous pale, dark-rimmed eyespots (hence 'argus'). As a nocturnal reef predator it hides by day in crevices of rocky reefs, with only the head showing, and seizes fish and crushes octopus at night. It bites fiercely when disturbed. Handle with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Argus moray?
The Argus moray has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Numerous dark-rimmed eyespots; nocturnal biting moray
Where does the Argus moray live?
The Argus moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific
How big does the Argus moray get?
The Argus moray grows to a maximum of about 120 cm. On average the species is around 60 cm.
Is the Argus moray dangerous to humans?
The Argus moray can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. Do not feed or reach into crevices. For a bite: rinse the wound thoroughly with clean water, apply firm pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. Moray bites are deep, ragged and prone to infection: always have them assessed medically and check tetanus status.
Is the Argus moray edible?
The Argus moray is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Muraena
More from the family Muraenidae
Want the complete picture on the Argus moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Argus moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.