Species · GBIF taxon 2403964
Green Moray
Gymnothorax funebrisAlso known as Green Eel, Black Moray, Olive Moray
Green morays glide through coral reefs and rocky crevices, using a keen sense of smell to hunt under the cover of darkness. Their striking green color is actually an optical illusion, caused by a yellowish mucus coating their dark blue skin. They constantly open and close their mouths to pump water over their gills, a breathing mechanism that is often mistaken for an aggressive display.
NocturnalMarineApex Predator
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Fish
- Crabs
- Octopuses
Predators
- Large Sharks
- Groupers
- Barracudas
ThreatsHabitat degradation, overfishing, and accidental capture in traps
HabitatsCoral reefs, rocky shorelines, mangroves, and seagrass beds
Life spanUp to 30 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyMuraenidae
- SpeciesGymnothorax funebris
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Possesses sharp teeth and a powerful bite; maintain a respectful distance while diving or snorkeling.
- Why it is dangerous
- Equipped with sharp, backward-curving teeth and powerful jaws that can inflict deep, easily infected puncture wounds.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Look for a large, thick-bodied, uniform green or brownish-green eel peering out from reef crevices.
- What to do
- Never reach into dark underwater crevices or attempt to touch or feed these animals.
Responsible observation
- Keep your distance: Give them space to retreat into their crevices without feeling cornered.
- Watch the mouth: Do not mistake their constant mouth-gaping for aggression, as it is simply how they breathe.
- Avoid feeding: Never offer food, which can encourage aggressive behavior toward divers.
Indo-Pacific Counterpart (c) Derek Keats, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
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