Fin's Fish Guide
The Highfin moray (Gymnothorax pseudothyrsoideus) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 80 cm.
Asia: Australia, China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia and others
Description
The Highfin moray is a moray (Muraenidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 80 cm and has a robust, snake-shaped, scaleless body. The brown body bears faint dark blotches and the dorsal fin starts high on the head. As a secretive reef predator it hides in crevices of coral and rocky reefs by day and seizes fish, crustaceans and squid at night. It bites fiercely when disturbed; handle with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Highfin moray?
The Highfin 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 Highfin moray live?
The Highfin moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Australia, China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia and others
How big does the Highfin moray get?
The Highfin moray grows to a maximum of about 80 cm.
Is the Highfin moray dangerous to humans?
The Highfin 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.
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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 Highfin moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Highfin moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.