morays

Morays are a family of eels, Muraenidae, comprising roughly 200 species of marine fishes in the order Anguilliformes. They are characterized by elongated bodies, the absence of pelvic and pectoral fins, and typically a continuous dorsal fin that runs along much of the body. Most morays have small scales or none at all and a thick, mucus-covered skin. A distinctive feature is their pharyngeal jaws, a second set of jaws inside the throat that helps transport prey into the esophagus.

Morays occur in tropical and subtropical seas worldwide, commonly around coral reefs, rocky crevices, and mangroves. They are mostly nocturnal and spend daylight hours hidden in crevices; some species may be more active during twilight.

Morays are carnivorous predators feeding on fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. They typically ambush prey from crevices and will bite with their sharp, pointed teeth. Because their eyesight is limited, they rely on smell and other senses, including a sensitive lateral line to detect vibrations. They are generally solitary and territorial; some species may engage in cleaning interactions with reef fish or participate in cooperative hunting with larger predators such as groupers.

Like other eels, morays reproduce in the open sea, with eggs and larvae drifting as leptocephali. The reproductive biology varies among species and remains incompletely understood.

Morays are sometimes kept in marine aquariums; their bites can be painful and potentially dangerous due to their sharp teeth. They play a role in reef ecosystems as predators and scavengers, and conservation status varies by species depending on habitat loss and other pressures.