Fin's Fish Guide
The Mediterranean moray (Muraena helena) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 150 cm.
Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic, among rocks, crevices and wrecks from shallow to several hundred metres deep.
Description
The Mediterranean moray is a large, scaleless eel of the family Muraenidae reaching about 1.5 metres. The snake-like body bears a handsome marbling of yellow on dark brown and lacks pectoral fins; the wide mouth is set with sharp, backward-pointing teeth. The species lives among rocks, crevices and wrecks of the Mediterranean and the eastern Atlantic. By day it shelters in holes with only the head showing, gaping constantly to pump water over the gills; at night it hunts fish, squid and crustaceans. It develops through a transparent leptocephalus larva. The moray bites fiercely when disturbed and can give serious wounds, so caution is needed.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mediterranean moray?
The Mediterranean moray has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Large, scaleless moray with a marbled pattern of yellow on dark brown and a wide mouth full of sharp teeth; lacks pectoral fins.
Where does the Mediterranean moray live?
The Mediterranean moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic, among rocks, crevices and wrecks from shallow to several hundred metres deep.
How big does the Mediterranean moray get?
The Mediterranean moray grows to a maximum of about 150 cm. On average the species is around 80 cm.
Is the Mediterranean moray dangerous to humans?
The Mediterranean moray can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. The moray bites fiercely when it feels threatened; the backward-pointing teeth cause deep, tearing wounds and its slime/blood can irritate. Never put your hand into crevices, and clean and dress a bite; seek medical help for a serious wound.
Is the Mediterranean moray edible?
Yes, the Mediterranean moray is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Mediterranean moray and live in the same waters.
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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 Mediterranean moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mediterranean moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.