Fin's Fish Guide
The Slendertail moray (Gymnothorax gracilicauda) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 32 cm.
Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Cocos Is. (Keel), Tuamotu Is., Marquesas Is., Kiribati and others
Description
The Slendertail moray is a moray eel (Muraenidae) from reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 40 cm and has an elongate, muscular, scaleless, eel-like body without pectoral fins, a long dorsal fin margin and a strong mouth. As a nocturnal ambush predator it shelters by day with only its head out of a crevice and hunts fish and crustaceans by night. When disturbed or handled it can give a deep, tearing bite; keep hands out of crevices.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Slendertail moray?
The Slendertail moray has a snake-like body and is mainly brown. Can bite with sharp teeth or powerful jaws; handle with care.
Where does the Slendertail moray live?
The Slendertail moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Cocos Is. (Keel), Tuamotu Is., Marquesas Is., Kiribati and others
How big does the Slendertail moray get?
The Slendertail moray grows to a maximum of about 32 cm.
Is the Slendertail moray dangerous to humans?
The Slendertail moray can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. A moray bite causes deep, ragged tearing wounds that infect quickly. Do not pull back if the bite locks on; rinse copiously with clean water, control bleeding with pressure and cover. Seek medical care, as suturing, antibiotics and a tetanus booster are often needed.
Is the Slendertail moray edible?
Yes, the Slendertail moray is commonly eaten.
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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 Slendertail moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Slendertail moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.