Fin's Fish Guide
The Slenderjaw moray (Enchelycore octaviana) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 91 cm.
North America: Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Galapagos Is., El Salvador, Guatemala and others
Description
The Slenderjaw moray is a moray (Muraenidae) from the eastern Pacific, off Central and South America. The species grows to about 91 cm and has a robust, snake-shaped, scaleless body with conspicuously curved jaws that do not fully close, leaving the long, glass-sharp fangs exposed. The body is plain brown. As a secretive reef predator it hides in crevices by day and seizes fish and squid at night. It bites fiercely and the sharp teeth inflict deep wounds; handle with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Slenderjaw moray?
The Slenderjaw moray has a snake-like body and is mainly brown. Can bite with sharp teeth or powerful jaws; handle with care.
Where does the Slenderjaw moray live?
The Slenderjaw moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. North America: Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Galapagos Is., El Salvador, Guatemala and others
How big does the Slenderjaw moray get?
The Slenderjaw moray grows to a maximum of about 91 cm.
Is the Slenderjaw moray dangerous to humans?
The Slenderjaw moray can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. Do not feed or reach into crevices. For a bite: rinse the wound thoroughly with clean water, apply firm pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. Moray bites are deep and prone to infection: always have them assessed medically and check tetanus status.
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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 Slenderjaw moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Slenderjaw moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.