Fin's Fish Guide
The Freshwater moray (Gymnothorax polyuranodon) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 150 cm.
Oceania: Australia, Brunei Darsm, Sri Lanka, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Fiji, Indonesia and others
Description
The freshwater moray is an unusual moray (Muraenidae) from the Indo-West Pacific that ascends far into fresh and brackish river water. The species grows to about 1.5 metres and has an elongate, snake-shaped, yellow-and-black spotted, scaleless body. As a nocturnal predator it hides by day among stones and roots and seizes fish and crustaceans at night. It bites fiercely when disturbed; handle with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Freshwater moray?
The Freshwater moray has a snake-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Can bite with sharp teeth or powerful jaws; handle with care.
Where does the Freshwater moray live?
The Freshwater moray lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Australia, Brunei Darsm, Sri Lanka, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Fiji, Indonesia and others
How big does the Freshwater moray get?
The Freshwater moray grows to a maximum of about 150 cm.
Is the Freshwater moray dangerous to humans?
The Freshwater 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 Freshwater moray edible?
Yes, the Freshwater moray is commonly 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 Freshwater moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Freshwater moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.