The Moray Eels (Muraenidae): There are several Moray Eels found in Mexican waters, all belonging to the Muraenidae Family which also includes the Snake Moray Eels.

The Morays are characterized by having elongated muscular compressed bodies with large mouths. They lack pectoral fins and scales. The anal and dorsal fins are continuous with the caudal fin.

There are 200 species known globally of which 28 reside in the Tropical Eastern Pacific.

Members of the Gymnothorax Genus have anal and dorsal fins that are covered with skin, dorsal fin originating before the anus, no pectoral fins, a straight lower jaw and gill openings the same coloration as the body.

There are 100 species known globally of which 6 reside in Mexican waters.

They are night feeders dining on small fishes and invertebrates including crabs, octopuses and shrimp.

Moray Eel caught near Loreto, Baja California Sur, Mexico, September 2003. Photo courtesy Jeff Petersen.