Fin's Fish Guide
The Leopard eel (Gymnothorax flavimarginatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 240 cm.
Description
The yellow-edged moray is a large moray (Muraenidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has an elongate, yellow-brown and dark-spotted body with a yellowish margin along the fins and a dark blotch around the gill opening. It lives bottom-bound in coral and rocky areas of reef flats, sheltered lagoons and along drop-offs, tucked into crevices. As a nocturnal ambush hunter it takes fishes, crustaceans and squids. It is not venomous, but can inflict a serious bite wound with its sharp teeth.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Leopard eel?
The Leopard eel has a snake-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Large reef moray with yellow-edged fins; nocturnal ambush predator that can bite fiercely.
Where does the Leopard eel live?
The Leopard eel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; coral and rocky areas of reefs.
How big does the Leopard eel get?
The Leopard eel grows to a maximum of about 240 cm.
Is the Leopard eel dangerous to humans?
The Leopard eel is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Not venomous, but large morays can inflict a deep, tearing bite with their sharp teeth and hold on. Never put a hand into crevices. Clean a bite wound thoroughly and seek medical care for deep wounds or infection.
Is the Leopard eel edible?
The Leopard eel is rarely eaten.
More photos
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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 Leopard eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Leopard eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.