Fin's Fish Guide
The Starry moray (Gymnothorax nudivomer) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 180 cm.
Asia: Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Marquesas Is., Guam, Indonesia, Israel and others
Description
The Starry moray is a moray (Muraenidae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 180 cm and has a robust, snake-shaped, scaleless body. The dark body is scattered with white star-spots and the mouth cavity is bright yellow; the skin mucus is toxic, so do not eat. As a secretive reef predator it hides in crevices of coral and rocky reefs by day and seizes fish, crustaceans and squid at night. It bites fiercely when disturbed; handle with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Starry moray?
The Starry moray has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Can bite with sharp teeth or powerful jaws; handle with care.
Where does the Starry moray live?
The Starry moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Marquesas Is., Guam, Indonesia, Israel and others
How big does the Starry moray get?
The Starry moray grows to a maximum of about 180 cm.
Is the Starry moray dangerous to humans?
The Starry 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 Gymnothorax
More from the family Muraenidae
Want the complete picture on the Starry moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Starry moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.