Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackpearl moray (Gymnothorax margaritophorus) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 70 cm.
Description
The blackpearl moray is a moray eel (Muraenidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has an eel-shaped, scaleless body with a pattern of dark, pearl-like spots on a lighter background; the dorsal, caudal and anal fins form a continuous fringe and pelvic and pectoral fins are absent. It inhabits reef flats and outer reef slopes to at least 20 m deep, where it shelters in crevices by day. As a night hunter it takes fishes, squid 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 Blackpearl moray?
The Blackpearl moray has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Dark pearly blotches; shelters in reef crevices during the day and hunts at night.
Where does the Blackpearl moray live?
The Blackpearl moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; reef flats and outer reef slopes.
How big does the Blackpearl moray get?
The Blackpearl moray grows to a maximum of about 70 cm.
Is the Blackpearl moray dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackpearl 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 Blackpearl moray edible?
The Blackpearl 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 Blackpearl moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackpearl moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.