Jewel Moray Care Guide

Muraena lentiginosa is an eastern Pacific moray with dark coloration and yellow circular spots, reaching about 61 cm.

Overview

Muraena lentiginosa, the Jewel Moray, is a moray eel of the family Muraenidae. FishBase describes it as dark purplish brown with yellow circular spots, a very compressed head and narrow, sharp-pointed jaws. It reaches about 61 cm in total length.

Taxonomy

• Family: Muraenidae
• Genus: Muraena
• Scientific name: Muraena lentiginosa Jenyns, 1842

Habitat

According to FishBase, the species occurs in the eastern Pacific from the Gulf of California to Islas Lobos de Afuera, Peru, including the Galapagos Islands. It is reef-associated in tropical waters and remains under cover in rocky crevices during the day, at depths of about 5-25 m.

Tank requirements

• Minimum tank volume: 800 L (about 211 gal)
• Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• GH: 8-12 °dGH
• Water flow: low
• Lifespan: 10-30 years

Diet

FishBase reports that the Jewel Moray feeds primarily at night on crustaceans and fishes. The KB record classifies it as a carnivore fed about twice weekly.

Compatibility

This nocturnal, bottom-dwelling, semi-aggressive predator should be kept with large, robust tankmates such as large groupers and triggers (with care). The KB record advises against small fish and ornamental shrimp, which are eaten.

Behavior

FishBase notes the species shelters in rocky crevices by day and forages at night. Its frequent mouth-opening serves respiration rather than threat display.

Conservation status

IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2007).