Fin's Fish Guide
The Freckled moray (Echidna nocturna) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 71 cm.
North America: Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Galapagos Is., El Salvador, Guatemala and others
Description
The Freckled moray is a moray (Muraenidae) from the eastern Pacific, off Central and South America. The species grows to about 71 cm and has a robust, snake-shaped, scaleless body. The brown body is scattered with numerous pale and dark freckles. Unlike many morays it has blunt, pebble-like teeth for crushing shellfish. As a secretive reef predator it hides in crevices by day and hunts crabs and shrimp at night. It can bite when disturbed; handle with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Freckled moray?
The Freckled moray has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Can bite with sharp teeth or powerful jaws; handle with care.
Where does the Freckled moray live?
The Freckled moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Galapagos Is., El Salvador, Guatemala and others
How big does the Freckled moray get?
The Freckled moray grows to a maximum of about 71 cm.
Is the Freckled moray dangerous to humans?
The Freckled 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 prone to infection: have them assessed medically and check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Echidna
More from the family Muraenidae
Want the complete picture on the Freckled moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Freckled moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.