Fin's Fish Guide
The Black moray (Muraena augusti) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 90 cm.
Eastern Atlantic, especially around the Macaronesian islands and West Africa, on rocky and hole-riddled reefs of shallow to moderately deep water.
Description
The black moray is a dark, almost black moray of the family Muraenidae reaching about 90 cm. The snake-like, scaleless body lacks pectoral fins and has a continuous fin fringe; characteristic are the yellowish chin and eye-rim, which contrast with the dark skin. The mouth is set with sharp, backward-pointing teeth. The species lives on rocky reefs of the eastern Atlantic, especially around the Macaronesian islands of the Azores, Madeira and the Canaries. By day it shelters with only its head out of a rock crevice; at night it ambushes fish, squid and crustaceans. It is not venomous, but can bite fiercely when disturbed and then causes deep wounds.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black moray?
The Black moray has a snake-like body, is mainly black and shows a plain pattern. Dark, almost black moray with a yellowish chin and eye rim; long, snake-like fish without pectoral fins, with a mouth full of sharp teeth.
Where does the Black moray live?
The Black moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Atlantic, especially around the Macaronesian islands and West Africa, on rocky and hole-riddled reefs of shallow to moderately deep water.
How big does the Black moray get?
The Black moray grows to a maximum of about 90 cm.
Is the Black moray dangerous to humans?
The Black moray can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. Not venomous, but the bite of the sharp teeth can be deep and painful and quickly become infected: clean the wound thoroughly, disinfect and seek medical help for a serious bite.
Is the Black moray edible?
The Black moray is rarely eaten.
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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 Black moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.