Fin's Fish Guide
The Bayer's moray (Enchelycore bayeri) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 70 cm.
Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Cocos Is. (Keel), Cook Is. and others
Description
The Bayer's moray is a moray eel (Muraenidae) from reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 80 cm and has an elongate, muscular, scaleless, eel-like body without pectoral fins, a long dorsal fin margin and a strong mouth. As a nocturnal ambush predator it shelters by day with only its head out of a crevice and hunts by night. When disturbed or handled it can give a deep, tearing bite; keep hands out of crevices.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bayer's moray?
The Bayer's moray has a snake-like body and is mainly brown. Can bite with sharp teeth or powerful jaws; handle with care.
Where does the Bayer's moray live?
The Bayer's moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Cocos Is. (Keel), Cook Is. and others
How big does the Bayer's moray get?
The Bayer's moray grows to a maximum of about 70 cm. On average the species is around 61 cm.
Is the Bayer's moray dangerous to humans?
The Bayer's moray can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. A moray bite causes deep, ragged tearing wounds that infect quickly. Do not pull back if the bite locks on; rinse copiously with clean water, control bleeding with pressure and cover. Seek medical care, as suturing, antibiotics and a tetanus booster are often needed.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Enchelycore
More from the family Muraenidae
Want the complete picture on the Bayer's moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bayer's moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.