Green Moray Eel

At Blue Planet Aquarium, we’re proud to showcase some of the ocean’s most fascinating creatures. Among them is an impressive member of the eel family: the green moray eel. Known for its striking appearance and nocturnal lifestyle, this eel is a captivating addition to our aquarium.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes the green moray eel so interesting!

What is a green moray eel?

The green moray eel (Gymnothorax funebris) belongs to the Muraenidae family, a group of long, snake-like fish often referred to simply as moray eels. Despite its name, the green moray’s skin is not green; it’s actually brown, but a yellowish mucus covering gives it its greenish hue.

These eels have elongated, muscular bodies that can reach impressive lengths, a wide jaw filled with sharp teeth, and small, round eyes. Their distinctive appearance makes them a popular species to observe during daylight hours but once night falls, they turn into the highly adapted ambush predators that they are.

Where do green moray eels live?

Green moray eels are typically found in the western Atlantic Ocean, ranging from New Jersey to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. These waters, with their warm temperatures and diverse ecosystems, provide the perfect environment for these remarkable fish.

When it comes to their habitats, green moray eels prefer rocky areas like coral reefs or underwater ledges. They are known for hiding in crevices or burrows, using these shelters as both protection from predators and prime spots for ambushing prey. Although rare, humans have been known to be on the receiving end of a nasty bite if they find themselves within reach of a moray eel. These bites are usually in response to provocation, so divers are advised to steer clear.

How big is a green moray eel?

Green moray eels are among the larger members of their family with an average length of between 1.5 and 2.5 metres (5 – 8 feet) in length, although some have been recorded at lengths as large as 2.7 metres (9 feet)! They typically weigh up to 29kgs (65 lbs), making them formidable creatures for many small and medium fish who share their habitat.

Green moray eel behaviour

The green moray eel exhibits a range of fascinating behaviours and adaptations that make it a must-see member of the Blue Planet Aquarium family.

Nocturnal feeders

Green moray eels are most active at night, using their excellent sense of smell to hunt in the dark. They feed primarily on fish and crustaceans, but their diet can include squid, crabs, and other marine creatures, as long as they can swallow or tear their prey into smaller pieces, they will eat it.

Pharyngeal jaws

Moray eels have two sets of jaws, a normal set and a second set called pharyngeal jaws which are found in the throat of the eels.  Most species with pharyngeal teeth do not have extendable pharyngeal jaws, moray eels are an exception to this and theirs are highly mobile. A moray eel will bite its prey with their first set of jaws to capture the prey and will bring their pharyngeal jaws forward almost immediately to create a strong grip and retract the food into their throat. This is what makes them excellent ambush predators by limiting the chance of their prey escaping their grasp!

Solitary creatures

Green moray eels are solitary and territorial, typically living alone in their rocky hiding spots. They may occasionally be seen with other marine species, like cleaner shrimp, that help remove parasites from their skin.

Anguilliform swimmers

Green moray eels move using anguilliform swimming, a unique motion where their entire body undulates to propel them forward. This movement allows them to dart quickly to catch prey or even swim backwards with ease, making them highly efficient predators in their environment.

The green moray eel is a fascinating blend of beauty and mystery, with a truly mythical feel to this scary-looking fish. From its vibrant green appearance to its nocturnal hunting habits and unique swimming style, this eel is sure to captivate you on your next trip to Blue Planet Aquarium.

What are you waiting for? Book your tickets now to come and see the green moray eel up close and discover more about the other extraordinary creatures of the deep at Blue Planet Aquarium!