Introduction to Saltwater Moray Eels

Saltwater Moray Eels are iconic, snake-like reef predators known for their elongated bodies, powerful jaws, and habit of peeking out from rock crevices with their mouths rhythmically opening and closing (a natural breathing motion). Found in coral reefs, rocky coastlines, and lagoons worldwide, morays are intelligent, hardy, and long-lived aquarium inhabitants. They thrive in aquariums that provide multiple hiding spots and secure rockwork. While generally reclusive, Moray Eels have strong feeding responses and may consume any tankmate small enough to fit in their mouth. Due to their strength, size, and escape potential, they are best kept by experienced aquarists with properly secured aquarium systems.

Care Requirements

Care Level: Moderate to Advanced – Requires secure, well-structured aquarium
Minimum Tank Size: 55 – 200+ gallons

• Smaller species (e.g., Snowflake Moray) – 55-75+ gallons

• Larger species (e.g., Zebra Moray, Green Moray) – 125-200+ gallons

Aquarium Setup:
Requires rock caves, tunnels, and crevices to hide in. A tight-fitting, escape-proof lid is essential, as morays are notorious escape artists. Strong biological filtration is needed because they produce heavy waste, especially when eating protein-rich foods.

Diet & Nutrition

Moray Eels are carnivores that require a meaty diet composed of marine-origin foods.

Diet: Carnivorous – Prefers fish, crustaceans, and mollusks

Recommended Foods:

• Fresh or frozen shrimp, squid, clams, scallops

• Chunks of marine fish (e.g., mahi, salmon pieces)

• Silversides, krill, and other meaty seafood

Feed 2–3 times per week, rather than daily.
Avoid freshwater feeder fish (e.g., goldfish) due to poor nutritional value and risk of health issues.

Tongs should always be used when feeding to avoid accidental bites.

Lifespan & Growth Rate

Lifespan: 10–30+ years in captivity with proper care
Growth Rate: Moderate to Fast – Many species reach 1.5–4+ feet

Some species, such as the Green Moray or Tesselata Moray, can reach massive sizes and should only be housed in very large aquariums or public exhibits.

Temperament & Compatibility

Temperament: Semi-Aggressive – Predatory but usually not openly hostile
Reef Safe? Reef Safe with Caution – Safe with corals, not safe with small fish or crustaceans

Morays typically ignore larger, confident fish but will eat:

• Small fish

• Crabs

• Shrimp

• Any tankmate that fits in their mouth

Best tankmates include:

• Larger Angelfish

• Groupers

• Triggers (non-nippy species)

• Large Wrasses

Avoid housing with fish that pick at fins or exposed flesh, as this stresses the eel.

Common Challenges & Considerations

• Escape Risk: Will exploit even the smallest gap in lids or plumbing

• Large Waste Output: Requires strong filtration and regular water changes

• Feeding Injuries: Use feeding tools; morays have poor eyesight but strong feeding responses

• Size Planning: Some species quickly outgrow small aquariums

Water Conditions

• Temperature: 72–78°F

• dKH (Alkalinity): 8–12

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Specific Gravity: 1.022–1.025

Stable parameters and high dissolved oxygen levels are essential for long-term health.

Color Varieties & Popular Species

Saltwater Moray Eels come in a variety of striking patterns and sizes.

• Snowflake Moray (Echidna nebulosa) – Ideal beginner eel; colorful and hardy

• Zebra Moray (Gymnomuraena zebra) – Gentle shellfish-eater with bold banding

• Dragon Moray (Enchelycore pardalis) – Highly sought-after, dramatic coloration

• Green Moray (Gymnothorax funebris) – Large, powerful species suitable only for very large tanks