Fin's Fish Guide
The Mottled conger moray (Enchelycore nigricans) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 100 cm.
Western Atlantic and Caribbean, on shallow reefs and along rocky shores.
Description
The viper moray is a moray eel (family Muraenidae) of the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about a metre and has a snake-like, dark brown to blackish body and strongly curved jaws full of needle-sharp teeth that cannot fully close. It is a benthic, solitary species common on shallow reefs and along rocky shores, where it shelters in crevices by day and hunts small fishes and crustaceans at night. It is caught incidentally and eaten fresh or salted in some areas. The species bites only when disturbed or handled carelessly.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mottled conger moray?
The Mottled conger moray has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Strongly curved jaws full of needle-sharp teeth that do not fully close; hides in crevices during the day.
Where does the Mottled conger moray live?
The Mottled conger moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean, on shallow reefs and along rocky shores.
How big does the Mottled conger moray get?
The Mottled conger moray grows to a maximum of about 100 cm. On average the species is around 60 cm.
Is the Mottled conger moray dangerous to humans?
No, the Mottled conger moray is harmless to humans. For a bite: clean and disinfect the wound thoroughly, stop the bleeding, and see a doctor for a deep or infected wound.
Is the Mottled conger moray edible?
The Mottled conger moray is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Enchelycore
More from the family Muraenidae
Want the complete picture on the Mottled conger moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mottled conger moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.