Family Muraenidae, Moray Eels

Family Muraenidae

Moray Eels

Moray eels are numerous in Hawaii, found in holes and under large rocks during the day. Therefore it is unwise to reach into these areas without looking as they might bite in self-defense. They usually hunt in the open under cover of night but will during the day if the opportunity arises. Most genera have large pointed teeth suited for capturing fishes while Echidna and Gymnomuraena have molar-like teeth for crushing shellfish. Morays have thick leathery skin that envelops the continuous marginal fin and lack pectoral fins. The tail does not form a stiff point as in Snake Eels. Morays are rarely eaten since they are likely to cause ciguatera poisoning, a serious neurological condition that can be contracted by eating certain kinds of reef fish. The generic Hawaiian name is Puhi.

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HAWAII

Gymnothorax eurostus