Common name: Lipspot moray

General information

The Peppered Moray, also known as the Starry Moray or Fine-spotted Moray, is a species of moray eel found in coral reef environments. Gymnothorax chilospilus is recognized for its distinctive pattern of small, pepper-like spots scattered across its body, which can range in color from a pale yellow to a darker brown hue. This species is not as commonly kept as some other moray eels, but it can be a fascinating addition to a larger fish-only or predator tank setup.

Care

Peppered Morays require a spacious aquarium with a secure lid to prevent escape, as they are known to be quite adept at finding their way out of tanks. They need plenty of hiding places and crevices within live rock to feel secure. These eels are carnivorous and should be fed a diet of meaty foods such as fish, squid, and shrimp. It's important to feed them with tongs to avoid accidental bites, as they have poor eyesight and rely heavily on their sense of smell.

Reproduction

In the wild, moray eels are oviparous, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. The larvae, known as leptocephali, are planktonic and undergo a long developmental phase before settling to the bottom and transforming into juvenile eels. Breeding Peppered Morays in captivity is extremely challenging and rarely achieved by hobbyists.

Habitat

Gymnothorax chilospilus is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Society Islands, north to the Ryukyu Islands, and south to New Caledonia. They typically inhabit coral reefs and rocky areas at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters.