Common name: Banded mud moray

General information

The Chlamydia Moray Eel, also known as the Leopard Moray Eel, is a distinctive and fascinating species within the marine aquarium hobby. Not to be confused with the bacterial genus Chlamydia, Gymnothorax chlamydatus is known for its unique leopard-like spots and relatively small size compared to other moray eels. This species is less commonly seen in the trade compared to its cousins, making it a prized find for eel enthusiasts.

Care

Caring for a Chlamydia Moray Eel requires a spacious tank with a secure lid, as moray eels are known escape artists. They need plenty of hiding spots and crevices within live rock to feel secure. This species is carnivorous, feeding on 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

Reproduction in captivity is rare for moray eels, and there is limited information on the breeding habits of the Chlamydia Moray Eel. In the wild, they are oviparous, with females releasing eggs into the water column to be fertilized externally by the male. Larvae are planktonic before eventually settling to the bottom as they mature.

Habitat

The Chlamydia Moray Eel 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 inhabit coral reefs and rocky areas, typically at depths of 1 to 30 meters. Hobbyists should aim to replicate this environment to some extent to ensure the well-being of the eel in captivity.