Species · GBIF taxon 5213106
Snowflake Moray
Echidna nebulosaAlso known as Clouded Moray, Snowflake Eel, Starry Moray, White-spotted Moray
Snowflake morays navigate shallow reef flats and tide pools under the cover of darkness, searching for crabs and shrimp. Their striking white bodies are adorned with black, star-like blotches containing bright yellow centers, providing excellent camouflage among sun-dappled corals. Unlike most morays, they possess blunt, pebble-like teeth specifically adapted for crushing the hard shells of crustaceans rather than catching fish.
NocturnalReef-dwellingCarnivore
- diet
- Crustaceans, especially crabs and shrimp, and occasionally small fish.
- family
- Muraenidae
- threats
- Habitat degradation, climate change affecting coral reefs, and collection for the aquarium trade.
- life Span
- 10 to 15 years
LC
Can deliver a painful defensive bite if cornered or handled; observe from a safe distance.
Possesses strong jaws and blunt teeth designed to crush shells, which can inflict a painful crushing bite if provoked.
Never reach into rocky crevices or attempt to touch; back away if the eel gapes its mouth defensively.- Keep your distance: Avoid reaching into dark reef crevices where they may be resting.
- Watch for active hours: Look for them hunting along shallow reef flats during dusk or night.
- Do not feed: Hand-feeding can lead to accidental bites due to their poor eyesight.