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Science & Nature • Marine Biology

Moray eel

Moray eels are a family of elongated, mostly marine fish in the family Muraenidae.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Moray eels are a family of elongated, mostly marine fish in the family Muraenidae. They comprise about 200 species in 16 genera and are found in tropical and temperate waters worldwide, usually in reefs, rocks, and other sheltered habitats. Most species are predatory and adapted to ambush hunting, with some species occasionally found in brackish or fresh water.

Taxonomy and classification

Moray eels belong to the family Muraenidae within the order Anguilliformes. They are ray-finned fishes and are commonly described as true eels.

Distribution and habitat

Moray eels occur worldwide, with most species living in tropical and temperate marine waters. They are especially associated with coral reefs, rocky bottoms, and other sheltered habitats, while only some species enter brackish or fresh water.

Behaviour and diet

Moray eels are carnivorous ambush predators that wait in shelter and strike passing prey. Their diet commonly includes fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods.

Physical characteristics

Moray eels have elongated bodies, thick skin, and typically lack scales, as well as reduced or absent pectoral and pelvic fins. Many species are noted for strong jaws and a snake-like appearance.

Key facts

  • Moray eels are a family of eels rather than a single species.
  • They are almost entirely marine, though a few species occur in brackish or freshwater environments.
  • They are common in reef and rocky habitats where they hide in crevices.
  • Moray eels are predatory and use ambush hunting to capture prey.
  • They have thick, scaleless skin and generally lack pectoral and pelvic fins.
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Canadian context

Moray eels are of interest to Canadian aquarium visitors, divers, and students of marine biology, but they are not native to most Canadian waters because the family is primarily tropical and temperate marine.

Frequently asked questions

Are moray eels true eels?
Yes. Moray eels are members of the eel order Anguilliformes and are classified in the family Muraenidae.
How many species of moray eel are there?
There are about 200 species in 16 genera.
Where do moray eels live?
Most species live in marine habitats worldwide, especially reefs and rocky crevices. A few species are found in brackish water, and rare species enter freshwater.
What do moray eels eat?
They are carnivores that feed mainly on fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods such as squid and octopus.
Do moray eels live in freshwater?
Most do not. The family is overwhelmingly marine, but some species are regularly seen in brackish water and a few occur in fresh water.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moray_eel
    Supports: Family classification, approximate species count, marine distribution, and occasional brackish/freshwater occurrence.
  2. SeaWorld — https://seaworld.org/animals/facts/bony-fish/morays/
    Supports: Physical traits such as thick skin, lack of scales, and reduced fins.
  3. Two Oceans Aquarium — https://www.aquarium.co.za/animals/moray-eels
    Supports: Family size, habitat, and notes on toxicity and ecosystem role.
  4. PADI — https://www.padi.com/blog/moray-eel-facts/
    Supports: Worldwide distribution in tropical and temperate waters among reefs and rocks.