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
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
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
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyMuraenidae
- SpeciesEchidna nebulosa
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- 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.
Co-occurring Predator (c) Derek Keats, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
Close Relative (c) Dan Schofield, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Dan Schofield · cc-by
Help improve the field guideSomething wrong?
Checking your Fauna account…Report a name, category, or profile issue for review.