Fin's Fish Guide
The Whitethroat moray (Gymnothorax phalarus) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 93 cm.
Description
The whitethroat moray is a moray (Muraenidae) from the eastern Pacific, off Central and South America. The species grows to about 93 cm and has an elongate, snake-shaped, dark-brown, scaleless body with a pale throat. As a nocturnal reef predator it hides by day in crevices and holes and seizes fish and crustaceans at night. It bites fiercely when disturbed; handle with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Whitethroat moray?
The Whitethroat moray has a snake-like body and is mainly brown. Can bite with sharp teeth or powerful jaws; handle with care.
Where does the Whitethroat moray live?
The Whitethroat moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Costa Rica, Mexico, Peru
How big does the Whitethroat moray get?
The Whitethroat moray grows to a maximum of about 93 cm.
Is the Whitethroat moray dangerous to humans?
The Whitethroat 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.
Is the Whitethroat moray edible?
Yes, the Whitethroat 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 Whitethroat moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Whitethroat moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.