Fin's Fish Guide
The Castle's moray (Gymnothorax castlei) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 23 cm.
Description
The Castle's moray is a moray eel (Muraenidae) from reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 50 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 fish and crustaceans 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 Castle's moray?
The Castle'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 Castle's moray live?
The Castle's moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Australia, Indonesia, Philippines
How big does the Castle's moray get?
The Castle's moray grows to a maximum of about 23 cm.
Is the Castle's moray dangerous to humans?
The Castle'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.
Is the Castle's moray edible?
Yes, the Castle's moray is commonly 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 Castle's moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Castle's moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.