Jewel Moray
Muraena lentiginosa
Jewel Moray (Muraena lentiginosa) is a colorful Pacific moray eel with a spotted, often jewel-like pattern. It is a reef-dwelling ambush predator that hides by day and hunts at night; it is rarely targeted by anglers.
Identification points
- Yellow-green to brown body covered in fine dark spotting and pale speckling
- Thick moray body with a blunt head and small eyes
- No pectoral fins and a continuous eel-like dorsal/caudal/anal fin fringe
Habitat
Rocky and coral reefs, reef ledges, caves, and crevices in shallow to mid-depth tropical eastern Pacific waters; usually sheltering with only the head exposed.
Bait notes
Rarely fished intentionally. If hooked incidentally, it may take fish chunks, squid, or other fresh cut bait near reef structure; small jigs or lures are not typical targets.
Behavior
Nocturnal ambush predator that feeds on fish and crustaceans. It remains hidden in holes during daylight and can strike quickly when prey passes close.
Caution
Has sharp teeth and a strong bite; handle with extreme care or avoid handling altogether. Reef-associated morays can pose a ciguatera risk if eaten, depending on location.
Fishing notes
Best approached as an incidental reef catch rather than a game species. Use stout tackle and a heavy leader around structure; avoid probing holes by hand or with bare fingers.