Fin's Fish Guide
The Dark spotted moray (Gymnothorax fimbriatus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 93 cm.
Description
The fimbriated moray is a moray eel (Muraenidae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 80 cm and has an elongate, eel-like, pale body with rows of dark blotches and a yellow-green head. It inhabits lagoons, reef flats and seaward reefs and prefers protected inshore waters among dead coral, often in harbours and small caves. It is probably nocturnal and hunts fishes and crustaceans. Morays are not aggressive, but the sharp teeth can give a nasty bite if handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dark spotted moray?
The Dark spotted moray has a snake-like body, is mainly white and shows a spots pattern. Pale-coloured body with rows of dark blotches and a yellow-green head; nocturnal, shelters among dead coral.
Where does the Dark spotted moray live?
The Dark spotted moray lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; lagoons, reef flats and seaward reefs.
How big does the Dark spotted moray get?
The Dark spotted moray grows to a maximum of about 93 cm.
Is the Dark spotted moray dangerous to humans?
No, the Dark spotted moray is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but the sharp teeth can give a nasty bite; handle a caught specimen with care and keep fingers away from the mouth. Clean any bite wound and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Dark spotted moray edible?
The Dark spotted 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 Dark spotted moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dark spotted moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.