Whitemouth Moray
Gymnothorax meleagris
Whitemouth Moray is a reef-dwelling moray eel of the Indo-Pacific, usually hidden in crevices by day and hunting at night. Its pale mouth lining and spotted body help separate it from similar morays.
Identification points
- Pale whitish mouth and throat lining visible when the jaws are open
- Dark body covered with many small pale spots or speckles
- Long eel-like body with a blunt head and large mouth typical of morays
Habitat
Coral and rocky reef slopes, lagoon patch reefs, and rubble zones with crevices and holes; typically in shallow to moderate-depth tropical marine waters.
Bait notes
Not a standard game fish. If targeted, small strips of fish or squid on heavy tackle can tempt it, but most encounters are incidental rather than deliberate.
Behavior
Nocturnal ambush predator that feeds on fishes and crustaceans. It stays concealed in reef holes during the day and may gape to ventilate its gills, which can look threatening but is normal.
Caution
Can inflict serious bites with sharp teeth; do not handline or attempt to grab it. Reef-associated fish may carry ciguatera risk if eaten, and local regulations may discourage retention.
Fishing notes
Best treated as a catch-and-release bycatch species. If hooked, keep clear of the mouth and use long-handled pliers or dehooking tools; avoid reaching into reef holes or lifting by hand.