Common name: Palechin Moray

General information

Herre's Moray, scientifically known as Gymnothorax herrei, is a lesser-known species of moray eel found in the marine aquarium trade. This species is distinguished by its slender body and attractive patterning, which includes a series of white to yellow spots and blotches against a dark background. The Starry Moray Eel, as it is sometimes called, is a nocturnal predator, primarily hunting at night.

Care

Herre's Moray requires a spacious aquarium with plenty of rockwork and hiding places to mimic its natural environment. They are escape artists, so a tightly fitting lid is essential. This species can be aggressive towards tank mates, especially smaller fish and invertebrates, so careful selection and monitoring are crucial. A varied diet of meaty foods such as fish, squid, and shrimp is important for their health.

Reproduction

In the wild, moray eels are oviparous, with females releasing eggs into the water column to be fertilized externally by males. However, breeding Herre's Moray in captivity is extremely rare and not well documented.

Habitat

Herre's Moray is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Philippines and Indonesia to Fiji, and as far north as the Ryukyu Islands. They typically inhabit coral reefs and rocky outcrops, often hiding within crevices during the day.