Common name: Stout moray
General information
The Giant Moray, scientifically known as Muraena robusta, is a large and impressive species of moray eel found in the Indo-Pacific region. It is one of the largest moray eels, capable of reaching lengths of over 2 meters. The Giant Moray has a distinctive elongated body with a brownish to olive coloration, which helps it blend into the rocky crevices and coral reefs it calls home.
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
- 2 m (6′7″)
- Care level
- Moderate to difficult Needs large, secure hiding places
- Diet
- Carnivore Prefers live or frozen foods
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- No May eat smaller fish/inverts
- Aggression
- Aggresive Can be aggressive, especially when hungry
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderEelsAnguilliformes
- FamilyMoray EelsMuraenidae
- GenusMoray EelsMuraena
- SpeciesStout morayMuraena robusta Osório, 1911
- SynonymsGymnothorax galetae Rubinoff, 1966Gymnothorax nevezi Roux, 1957Murenophis robustus (Osório, 1911)
Care
Giant Morays require large and well-established aquariums due to their size and territorial nature. They need plenty of hiding spaces and a secure lid to prevent escape. These eels are carnivorous and should be fed a varied diet of meaty foods such as fish, squid, and crustaceans. Caution is advised when feeding, as they can deliver a powerful bite.
Reproduction
In the wild, Giant Morays reproduce through a process called broadcast spawning, where eggs and sperm are released into the water column. In captivity, breeding is rare and not well-documented. These eels are solitary creatures and only come together to mate.
Habitat
Giant Morays are 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 prefer reef environments and are often found in lagoons and seaward reefs at depths of up to 50 meters.