Fin's Fish Guide
The Shortfin false moray (Kaupichthys brachychirus) is a saltwater fish of the family Chlopsidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Solomon Is., Fiji, French Polynesia, Indonesia and others
Description
The shortfin false moray is a small false moray (Chlopsidae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 13 cm and has a slender, snake-shaped, brownish, scaleless body resembling a small moray, but with short pectoral fins. As a cryptic reef-dweller it hides deep in crevices and cavities of coral and rocky reefs and snaps at small crustaceans and worms. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Shortfin false moray?
The Shortfin false moray has a snake-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Shortfin false moray live?
The Shortfin false moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Solomon Is., Fiji, French Polynesia, Indonesia and others
How big does the Shortfin false moray get?
The Shortfin false moray grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Shortfin false moray dangerous to humans?
No, the Shortfin false moray is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Kaupichthys
More from the family Chlopsidae
Want the complete picture on the Shortfin false moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shortfin false moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.