Fin's Fish Guide
The Hourglass moray (Muraena clepsydra) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 120 cm.
Description
The hourglass moray is a moray eel of the family Muraenidae from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 120 cm and has an elongate, snake-like body with a pattern of pale spots on a dark background. It lives in rocky, boulder-strewn areas and along walls, where it lurks in holes, crevices and dark recesses. Morays constantly open and close the mouth, a movement that pumps water over the gills and is not meant as a threat. As a nocturnal predator it hunts fishes and crustaceans. With its powerful jaws and sharp teeth it can give a nasty bite; be careful.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hourglass moray?
The Hourglass moray has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Pale blotches on a dark background; nocturnal reef hunter that lies in wait in crevices.
Where does the Hourglass moray live?
The Hourglass moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific; rocky, boulder-strewn coastal areas.
How big does the Hourglass moray get?
The Hourglass moray grows to a maximum of about 120 cm. On average the species is around 60 cm.
Is the Hourglass moray dangerous to humans?
No, the Hourglass moray is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but the powerful jaws with sharp teeth can give a nasty bite; never put a hand into crevices and handle a caught specimen with care. Clean any bite wound and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Hourglass moray edible?
The Hourglass moray is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Muraena
More from the family Muraenidae
Want the complete picture on the Hourglass moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hourglass moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.