Common name: Grey moray

General information

The Dusty Moray, also known as the Yellow-edged Moray or Yellow-margin Moray, is a species of moray eel found in coral reef environments. With its distinct yellow margins on the dorsal and anal fins, Gymnothorax nubilus is a striking presence in any marine aquarium. This species can grow quite large, often reaching lengths of over a meter in the wild.

Moray eels have a unique hunting method, using a second set of jaws located in their throat called pharyngeal jaws to capture and pull prey into their digestive system. This fascinating adaptation is a prime example of evolutionary specialization.

Care

Dusty Morays require a large and well-structured aquarium to thrive, with plenty of hiding places to mimic their natural reef habitat. They are carnivorous and should be fed a varied diet of meaty foods such as fish, squid, and crustaceans. It's important to feed them using 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 solitary creatures and come together only to breed. Little is known about their breeding habits in the wild, and breeding in captivity is rare. They are oviparous, with females releasing eggs that are then fertilized externally by the male.

Habitat

Gymnothorax nubilus is typically found in the Indo-Pacific region, from East Africa to the Hawaiian Islands, and from Japan to Australia. They prefer coral reefs and rocky crevices at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 150 feet.