Common name: Greyface moray
General information
The Freckled Moray, scientifically known as Gymnothorax thyrsoideus, is a species of moray eel found in coral reef environments. It is recognized by its greyish to brownish body coloration with numerous small dark spots, which give it a 'freckled' appearance. This species can grow to a considerable size, making it an impressive addition to larger marine aquariums.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 200 liter (53 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 60 cm (2′)
- Care level
- Moderate to difficult Sensitive to water quality.
- Diet
- Carnivore Prefers live or frozen foods.
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone.
- Reefsafe
- No May eat small fish/inverts.
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Can be aggressive, especially to small fish.
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderEelsAnguilliformes
- FamilyMoray EelsMuraenidae
- GenusMoray EelsGymnothorax
- SpeciesGreyface morayGymnothorax thyrsoideus (Richardson, 1845)
- Synonyms? thyrsoideus Richardson, 1845Gymnothorax thrysoideus (Richardson, 1845)Gymnothorax thyrsoides (Richardson, 1845)Muraena prosopeion Bleeker, 1853Muraena thrysoidea Richardson, 1845Muraena thyrsoides Richardson, 1845Siderea prosopeion (Bleeker, 1853)Siderea thrysoidea (Richardson, 1845)Siderea thyrsoidea (Richardson, 1845)Siderea thysoidea (Richardson, 1845)
Care
Freckled Morays require spacious aquariums with plenty of rockwork and hiding places to mimic their natural habitat. They are carnivorous and should be fed a varied diet of meaty foods such as fish, squid, and crustaceans. Care should be taken when feeding, as moray eels can mistake a keeper's hand for food, leading to potential bites.
Reproduction
In the wild, Freckled Morays reproduce through external fertilization, where females release eggs and males release sperm into the water column. Breeding in captivity is rare and not well-documented for this species.
Habitat
Gymnothorax thyrsoideus is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Society Islands, north to southern Japan, and south to New Caledonia. They typically inhabit coral reefs and rocky areas at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters.