Fin's Fish Guide
The Caribbean chestnut moray (Enchelycore carychroa) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 34 cm.
Description
The chestnut moray is a small moray eel of the family Muraenidae from the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 34 cm and has an elongate, snake-like, chestnut-brown body with fine pale speckles on the head. It prefers rocky bottoms and also occurs in and around coral reefs, where by day it shelters in crevices and holes. As a nocturnal predator it hunts small fishes and crustaceans. The curved jaws bear sharp, backward-pointing teeth. With those jaws it can give a nasty bite; never put a hand into crevices.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Caribbean chestnut moray?
The Caribbean chestnut moray has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Chestnut-brown with fine light speckles; nocturnal reef hunter with curved, biting jaws.
Where does the Caribbean chestnut moray live?
The Caribbean chestnut moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean; rocky bottoms and coral reefs.
How big does the Caribbean chestnut moray get?
The Caribbean chestnut moray grows to a maximum of about 34 cm.
Is the Caribbean chestnut moray dangerous to humans?
No, the Caribbean chestnut moray is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but the powerful jaws with sharp teeth can give a nasty bite; never put a hand into crevices and handle a caught specimen with care. Clean any bite wound and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Caribbean chestnut moray edible?
The Caribbean chestnut moray is not usually eaten.
More photos
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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 Caribbean chestnut moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Caribbean chestnut moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.