Yellowmouth Moray

Overview

The Yellowmouth Moray (Gymnothorax nudivomer) is a large, robust eel recognized by its distinctive bright yellow mouth lining. It is a solitary, carnivorous species that typically remains hidden in reef crevices during the day and emerges at night to hunt.

Appearance

This species features a long, serpentine body with a brown to yellowish-brown base color. It is covered in a constellation of small white spots that are densely packed near the head and become larger and more widely spaced toward the tail. The head is relatively small and blunt, and the gill openings are marked by a dark, brownish patch. Unlike many other morays, its teeth are less prominent, and its jaws remain straight rather than arched, even in larger individuals.

Distribution & habitat

The Yellowmouth Moray is widespread throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific, ranging from the Red Sea and the eastern coast of Africa to the Hawaiian and Marquesan islands, and from southern Japan to New Caledonia. It is primarily a benthic species, commonly found inhabiting the inner and outer slopes of coral and rocky reefs.

Biology & behavior

As a nocturnal predator, the Yellowmouth Moray spends its daylight hours sheltered in holes or crevices. It is a solitary hunter that feeds primarily on fish. While generally elusive, it is known to be a hardy species. Caution is advised, as the species is considered poisonous to eat, and its bite can be painful and prone to infection.