Fin's Fish Guide
The Largehead moray (Uropterygius macrocephalus) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 47 cm.
Description
The needle-tooth moray is a moray eel (Muraenidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has an eel-shaped, scaleless body with a fairly large head and needle-sharp teeth; the dorsal, caudal and anal fins are fused into a low fringe and pelvic and pectoral fins are absent. It inhabits exposed seaward reefs to about 14 m deep and shelters solitarily in crevices and holes by day, hunting small fishes and crustaceans at night. The sharp teeth can give a serious bite when handled; otherwise the fish is not aggressive.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Largehead moray?
The Largehead moray has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Eel-shaped moray with needle-sharp teeth; shelters in reef crevices during the day, hunts at night.
Where does the Largehead moray live?
The Largehead moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; seaward reefs.
How big does the Largehead moray get?
The Largehead moray grows to a maximum of about 47 cm.
Is the Largehead moray dangerous to humans?
No, the Largehead moray is harmless to humans. The sharp teeth can give a serious bite when handled. Clean and disinfect the wound thoroughly; moray bites readily become infected, so seek medical care for a deep wound or infection.
Is the Largehead moray edible?
The Largehead moray is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Uropterygius
More from the family Muraenidae
Want the complete picture on the Largehead moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Largehead moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.