Gymnothorax nudivomer

Lore & Background

The starry moray is a large fish that can reach a maximum length of 180 cm, though individuals usually observed are smaller. Its serpentine body has a brown background color dotted with small white spots circled with darker brown than the background. The spots are relatively small on the head and become larger toward the tail. A key identifying feature is the yellow color of its inside mouth, while the gill aperture is dark brown.

This species is widespread throughout the Indo-Pacific area, from the eastern coast of Africa (including the Red Sea) to Polynesia and Hawaii, and from southern Japan to New Caledonia. It inhabits the outer slopes of coral reefs, sheltering in crevices at depths between 3.3 and 894.3 feet, though it is usually seen at around 99 feet.

The starry moray is solitary and carnivorous, leaving its lair at night to actively hunt prey along the reef. It mainly feeds on fishes.

Reader's Guide

The starry moray is a species of marine fish in the family Muraenidae, distinguished by its yellow mouth interior and spotted pattern. Its maximum recorded length is 180 cm, though typical sightings are of smaller individuals. The species is solitary and nocturnal, actively hunting fishes along coral reefs. Its distribution spans the Indo-Pacific from eastern Africa and the Red Sea to Polynesia and Hawaii, and from southern Japan to New Caledonia. It occupies outer reef slopes at depths from 3.3 to 894.3 feet, with a typical depth of around 99 feet. The starry moray's biology and habitat preferences are consistent with many moray eels, but its distinctive coloration and wide range make it a recognizable member of the Muraenidae.

Did You Know?

• Its inside mouth is yellow, which is a key identifying feature.
• It is found from the eastern coast of Africa and the Red Sea to Polynesia and Hawaii.
• It is solitary and hunts at night, mainly feeding on fishes.