Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotted moray (Gymnothorax isingteena) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 180 cm.
Asia: Australia, China, Comoros, Indonesia, Japan, Korea (South) and others
Description
The spotted moray is a large moray (Muraenidae) from the western Pacific. The species grows to about 1.8 metres and has an elongate, snake-shaped, scaleless body with a white to yellow ground densely covered with numerous small dark spots. As a nocturnal reef predator it hides by day in caves and crevices and seizes fish and crustaceans at night. It bites fiercely when disturbed; handle with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotted moray?
The Spotted moray has a snake-like body, is mainly white and shows a spots pattern. Can bite with sharp teeth or powerful jaws; handle with care.
Where does the Spotted moray live?
The Spotted moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Australia, China, Comoros, Indonesia, Japan, Korea (South) and others
How big does the Spotted moray get?
The Spotted moray grows to a maximum of about 180 cm.
Is the Spotted moray dangerous to humans?
The Spotted 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 Spotted moray edible?
Yes, the Spotted 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 Spotted moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotted moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone