Fin's Fish Guide
The Giant moray (Gymnothorax javanicus) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 300 cm.
Asia: American Samoa, Australia, Brunei Darsm, Sri Lanka, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I. and others
Description
The giant moray is the largest moray (Muraenidae) of the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 3 metres and has a heavy, elongate, snake-shaped, scaleless body that in adults is dark and mottled with black spots. As a nocturnal top reef predator it hides by day in caves and crevices and seizes fish and octopus at night. Large specimens are among the most important ciguatera carriers and must not be eaten; it also bites fiercely when disturbed. Caution is advised.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Giant moray?
The Giant moray has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with care or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Giant moray live?
The Giant moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: American Samoa, Australia, Brunei Darsm, Sri Lanka, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I. and others
How big does the Giant moray get?
The Giant moray grows to a maximum of about 300 cm.
Is the Giant moray dangerous to humans?
The Giant moray is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Large specimens can carry ciguatera, a food-chain toxin not destroyed by cooking; do not eat. For poisoning (tingling, reversed hot-cold sensation, gastrointestinal symptoms): seek medical help. This large moray can also bite fiercely; do not reach into crevices with bare hands.
Is the Giant moray edible?
The Giant moray is not usually 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 Giant moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Giant moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.