Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackspot moray (Gymnothorax melatremus) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The blackspot moray is one of the smallest moray eels (Muraenidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species reaches about 30 cm and has a yellow-brown, eel-like body with a dark spot near the gill opening. It is shy and lives solitarily in holes and crevices of seaward reefs, from the surge zone to over 25 m deep, and is rarely seen. By day it often protrudes only its head from a crevice; at night it hunts small fishes and crustaceans. Although small, the species can bite with its sharp teeth when threatened or handled carelessly.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackspot moray?
The Blackspot moray has a snake-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a plain pattern. Small, shy moray that hides in crevices; can bite when threatened.
Where does the Blackspot moray live?
The Blackspot moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific, in crevices of seaward reefs.
How big does the Blackspot moray get?
The Blackspot moray grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 18 cm.
Is the Blackspot moray dangerous to humans?
The Blackspot moray can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. Morays can inflict a deep, ragged bite with their sharp, rearward-pointing teeth that readily becomes infected. Do not provoke or feed the animal and do not put a hand into crevices; flush a bite thoroughly and seek medical help.
Is the Blackspot moray edible?
The Blackspot moray is rarely eaten.
More photos
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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 Blackspot moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackspot moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.