The Yellow-spotted moray (Echidna xanthospilos) is a saltwater fish of the family Muraenidae that grows up to 75 cm.
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Description
The Yellow-spotted moray is a moray (Muraenidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 75 cm and has a robust, snake-shaped, scaleless body. The dark body bears conspicuous yellow blotches. Unlike many morays it has blunt, pebble-like teeth for crushing shellfish. As a secretive reef predator it hides in crevices by day and hunts crabs and shrimp at night. It can bite when disturbed; handle with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Yellow-spotted moray?
The Yellow-spotted 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 Yellow-spotted moray live?
The Yellow-spotted moray lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Sri Lanka, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Samoa
How big does the Yellow-spotted moray get?
The Yellow-spotted moray grows to a maximum of about 75 cm.
Is the Yellow-spotted moray dangerous to humans?
The Yellow-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 prone to infection: 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 Echidna
More from the family Muraenidae
Want the complete picture on the Yellow-spotted moray?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Yellow-spotted moray is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone