Green Moray Eel
Scientific Name: Gymnothorax prasinus
Green moray eels are common inhabitants of tropical seas and temperate oceans worldwide. Although they are sometimes mistakenly referred to as "sea snakes," all species of eels are actually carnivorous fish.
Green moray eels are one of the largest members of the eel family, weighing up to 30lbs and measuring up to 6ft in length. They appear green from a distance, but closer inspection reveals that green moray eels instead have blue skin. This skin is covered by a protective layer of thick, yellow slime-giving the eels their characteristic, green appearance.
Fun Facts:
- Preferring to live in the tiny crevices of reefs and rocks, Green moray eels will generally rest during the day in these hiding spots with only the tips of their noses exposed.
- Many people believe that eels are aggressive because they are typically seen repetitively baring their teeth and opening their mouths. In actuality, this is simply how eels breathe.
- Eels move through the water by flexing their bodies into lateral waves-similar to the way snakes move on land. This movement is known as "anguilliform" swimming.
- Plagued by poor eyesight, green moray eels must rely most heavily upon their senses of smell to capture their prey.
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