Fin's Fish Guide
The Australian mottled moray (Gymnothorax prionodon) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 150 cm.
Asia: Australia, China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Japan, New Zealand, Ogasawara Is.
Description
The Australian mottled moray is a moray (Muraenidae) from coastal waters of Australia. The species grows to about 150 cm and has a robust, snake-shaped, scaleless body. The body bears a mottled pattern of dark and pale blotches. As a secretive reef predator it hides in crevices of coral and rocky reefs by day and seizes fish, crustaceans and squid at night. It bites fiercely when disturbed; handle with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Australian mottled moray?
The Australian mottled moray has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Can bite with sharp teeth or powerful jaws; handle with care.
Where does the Australian mottled moray live?
The Australian mottled moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Australia, China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Japan, New Zealand, Ogasawara Is.
How big does the Australian mottled moray get?
The Australian mottled moray grows to a maximum of about 150 cm. On average the species is around 80 cm.
Is the Australian mottled moray dangerous to humans?
The Australian mottled 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 and prone to infection: always have them assessed medically and check tetanus status.
Is the Australian mottled moray edible?
Yes, the Australian mottled moray is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Gymnothorax
More from the family Muraenidae
Want the complete picture on the Australian mottled moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Australian mottled moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.