Panamic Green Moray

Family: Moray Eels (Muraenidae)
Size: Up to 150 cm (5 ft) | Weight: Up to 4.76 kg
Habitat: Rocky reefs, crevices, and dark recesses.
Distribution: Tropical Eastern Pacific (Gulf of California to Galapagos).

Identification:
A large, muscular eel often seen peeking out from hiding spots.

• Coloration: The Panamic Green Moray displays a vibrant green skin color, distinct from its Atlantic cousin which is typically more yellow or brown.
• Skin: It lacks scales and is coated in a thick, slimy mucus. This mucus protects it from parasites and infections while reducing friction as it slips through narrow rocky crevices.

Behavior:
Despite its sinister appearance, this is actually a shy fish that prefers to avoid human interaction.

• The “Threat” Display: You will often see them opening and closing their mouths to display sharp teeth. This is not a threat; it is an action required for respiration to pump water over their gills.
• Hunting: They are nocturnal predators. During the day they lurk in holes, but at night they leave their den to forage for crustaceans and small fish in the open water.