Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded moray (Echidna polyzona) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 72 cm.
Description
The barred moray is a moray eel (Muraenidae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 60 cm and has an elongate, eel-like body that is conspicuously black-and-white banded when young, to which the name refers; the bands fade with age. It inhabits reef flats, clear shallow lagoons and seaward reefs, where by day it shelters in crevices. Unlike many morays it has blunt molars with which it mainly crushes small crustaceans, both day and night. Morays are not aggressive, but the teeth can give a nasty bite if handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded moray?
The Banded moray has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Juveniles banded black and white; blunt molars for crushing crustaceans; shelters in crevices.
Where does the Banded moray live?
The Banded moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; reef flats, lagoons and seaward reefs.
How big does the Banded moray get?
The Banded moray grows to a maximum of about 72 cm.
Is the Banded moray dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded moray is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but the sharp teeth can give a nasty bite; handle a caught specimen with care and keep fingers away from the mouth. Clean any bite wound and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Banded moray edible?
The Banded moray is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Echidna
More from the family Muraenidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.