Yellowmargin Moray

Gymnothorax flavimarginatus

Yellowmargin Moray is a large reef moray found in the Indo-Pacific, from the Red Sea and East Africa to Hawaii and the central Pacific. It hides in coral and rocky crevices by day and hunts fish and crustaceans at night.

Saltwater

Yellowmargin Moray reference image — Diego Delso, cc-by-sa, via Wikimedia Commons. Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Identification points

Brown to olive body with a distinct yellow to pale-gold margin along the dorsal fin
Pale yellow or creamy line around the jaw and gill opening in many individuals
Long, snake-like eel body with a blunt head and small eyes, typical of morays

Habitat

Coral reefs, lagoon drop-offs, surge channels, and rocky crevices in shallow to moderate tropical marine waters; shelters in holes and caves during daylight.

Bait notes

Rarely targeted as a sport fish; if pursued, use fresh cut fish, squid, or shrimp fished very close to structure. Strong wire or heavy mono leaders help resist abrasion.

Behavior

Nocturnal ambush predator that feeds mainly on fish and crustaceans. It stays tucked into crevices by day and may strike quickly from cover when bait passes close.

Caution

Powerful jaws and sharp, backward-pointing teeth can inflict serious bites; do not hand-hold. Large reef-associated morays can pose ciguatera risk in some regions, so consumption is often avoided.

Fishing notes

Fish tight to reef holes, ledges, and cave mouths at night or low light. Use a slow retrieve or still bait presentation and expect violent runs into structure; handle with tools only.