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Greyface moray

Gymnothorax thyrsoideus

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Greyface moray

Gymnothorax thyrsoideus

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The Greyface moray is recognized by its relatively large white eyes. It can grow up to 65 cm in length. They are mostly found in crevices, holes and are known to hide in shipwrecks. Usually you will see them with only the head sticking out. It is common that they will share their hiding with another moray. When the animal is left undisturbed it will not retreat and you can have a good look at it. Morays constantly open and close the mouth and show their teeth. This might look threatening, but they only do this to move water through their gills for respiration. Morays will not attack humans unless provoked or caught off guard. The teeth can however inflict harmful wounds, so caution should be taken when sighted. It feeds on small fish and invertebrates.

Alternative names

Freckled moray, Slender moray, White-eye moray, White-eyed moray.

Tags

Eels and snakes, Moray eels