Fin's Fish Guide
The White-margined moray (Enchelycore schismatorhynchus) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 120 cm.
Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Cook Is., Fiji and others
Description
The White-margined moray is a moray (Muraenidae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 120 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 brown body has white-edged fins and a pale snout. 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 White-margined moray?
The White-margined moray has a snake-like body and is mainly brown. Can bite with sharp teeth or powerful jaws; handle with care.
Where does the White-margined moray live?
The White-margined moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Cook Is., Fiji and others
How big does the White-margined moray get?
The White-margined moray grows to a maximum of about 120 cm.
Is the White-margined moray dangerous to humans?
The White-margined 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 White-margined moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the White-margined moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.