Common name: Moray

Scientific name: Muraena melanotis (Kaup, 1859)

General information

The Caribbean Whiptail Moray, scientifically known as Muraena melanotis, is a distinctive eel species found in the tropical western Atlantic Ocean. This species is recognized by its elongated body, dark tail, and the presence of a reticulated pattern on its body. It is not commonly kept in home aquariums due to its size and specific care requirements.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
500 liter (130 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 smaller fish/inverts.
Aggression
Semi aggresive Can be aggressive, especially when hungry.
Captive bred
No

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Eels
    Anguilliformes
  5. Family
    Moray Eels
    Muraenidae
  6. Genus
    Moray Eels
    Muraena
  7. Species
    Moray
    Muraena melanotis (Kaup, 1859)
  8. Synonyms
    Limamuraena melanotis Kaup, 1859
    Limmamuraena melanotis Kaup, 1860
    Muraena albomarginata Pfaff, 1933
    Muraenophis melanotis (Kaup, 1859)

Care

The Caribbean Whiptail Moray requires a large aquarium with a tightly sealed lid to prevent escape. They are known for their ability to slither through small openings. A tank with plenty of rockwork and hiding places is essential to mimic their natural habitat and to provide a sense of security. This species can grow quite large, and therefore, a spacious environment is crucial for their well-being.

Feeding should consist of a varied diet of meaty foods such as fish, squid, and shrimp. It is important to feed them using tongs to avoid accidental bites, as moray eels have sharp teeth and a strong bite.

Reproduction

Little is known about the reproductive habits of the Caribbean Whiptail Moray in the wild or in captivity. They are not commonly bred in home aquariums, and most knowledge of their reproduction comes from observations in their natural environment.

Habitat

The Caribbean Whiptail Moray is found in the tropical western Atlantic, from Florida and the Bahamas to Brazil, including the Caribbean Sea. They typically inhabit coral reefs and rocky areas, often hiding in crevices during the day. They are nocturnal predators, emerging at night to hunt for prey.