Fauna
Species · GBIF taxon 5213106

Snowflake Moray

Echidna nebulosa

Also 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
Snowflake Moray reference
Licensed reference"Waikiki Aquarium--Snowflake Moray Eel 2" by Makuahine Pa'i Ki'i is licensed under CC BY 2.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/. · cc-by
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & prey
  • Crabs
  • Shrimp
  • Mantis shrimp
Predators
  • Sea snakes
  • Large groupers
  • Sharks
ThreatsHabitat degradation, climate change affecting coral reefs, and collection for the aquarium trade.
HabitatsShallow coral reefs, rocky shores, tide pools, and lagoons.
Life span10 to 15 years
Classification
  1. FamilyMuraenidae
  2. SpeciesEchidna nebulosa
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Can deliver a painful defensive bite if cornered or handled; observe from a safe distance.
Why it is dangerous
Possesses strong jaws and blunt teeth designed to crush shells, which can inflict a painful crushing bite if provoked.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Recognizable by its white body patterned with black, star-like blotches containing yellow centers, and bright yellow eyes.
What to do
Never reach into rocky crevices or attempt to touch; back away if the eel gapes its mouth defensively.
Responsible observation
  • 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.
Related species
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