Fin's Fish Guide
The Dragon moray (Enchelycore pardalis) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 92 cm.
Oceania: American Samoa, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Cocos Is. (Keel), Cook Is., French Polynesia and others
Description
The Dragon moray is a moray (Muraenidae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 92 cm and has a robust, snake-shaped, scaleless body with conspicuously curved jaws that do not fully close, leaving the long, glass-sharp fangs exposed. The body bears a striking pattern of orange, red, white and black, with conspicuous nasal tubes and horns above the eyes. As a secretive reef predator it hides in crevices by day and seizes fish and squid at night. It bites fiercely and the sharp teeth inflict deep wounds; handle with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dragon moray?
The Dragon moray has a snake-like body and is mainly red-orange. Can bite with sharp teeth or powerful jaws; handle with care.
Where does the Dragon moray live?
The Dragon moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: American Samoa, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Cocos Is. (Keel), Cook Is., French Polynesia and others
How big does the Dragon moray get?
The Dragon moray grows to a maximum of about 92 cm.
Is the Dragon moray dangerous to humans?
The Dragon moray can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. Do not feed or reach into crevices. For a bite: rinse the wound thoroughly with clean water, apply firm pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. Moray bites are deep and prone to infection: always have them assessed medically and check tetanus status.
Is the Dragon moray edible?
Yes, the Dragon moray is commonly eaten.
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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 Dragon moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dragon moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.