Fin's Fish Guide
The Barredfin moray (Gymnothorax zonipectis) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
The barredfin moray is a moray eel (Muraenidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has an eel-shaped, scaleless body with a mottled pattern and a dark blotch at the gill opening; the dorsal, caudal and anal fins form a continuous fringe and pelvic and pectoral fins are absent. It inhabits ledges and rubble areas of outer reef slopes to at least 40 m deep, where it shelters by day. As a night hunter it takes small fishes and crustaceans. The sharp teeth can give a serious bite when handled; otherwise the fish is not aggressive.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Barredfin moray?
The Barredfin moray has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Marbled with a dark blotch near the gill opening; night hunter of reef slopes.
Where does the Barredfin moray live?
The Barredfin moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; outer reef slopes.
How big does the Barredfin moray get?
The Barredfin moray grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Barredfin moray dangerous to humans?
No, the Barredfin moray is harmless to humans. The sharp teeth can give a serious bite when handled. Clean and disinfect the wound thoroughly; moray bites readily become infected, so seek medical care for a deep wound or infection.
Is the Barredfin moray edible?
The Barredfin moray is rarely 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 Barredfin moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Barredfin moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.