Undulated Moray Eel

An undulated eel with other fish
An undulated eel in the waters off Hawaii

I saw this Undulated Moray Eel out in the open recently and, rather than dart for shelter, it remained where it was opening and closing its jaws. While this looks threatening, it’s typical of most eels, the purpose being to push water over its gills, the equivalent of breathing. However, that’s not to say it’s a good idea to dive down and interact with the eel.

My fish book describes the Undulated Moray Eel as “one of the nastiest.” Its narrow jaws hold three rows of teeth, one running down the middle of its mouth. It’s usual prey includes small fish, but this eel was accompanied by a changing group of fish, and neither seemed too bothered about the other.

In Hawaii, this eel is often called the chainlink eel, for obvious reasons.

An undulated eel in the waters off Hawaii

10 thoughts on “Undulated Moray Eel”

    1. Graham's avatarGraham Post author

      They are, but so long as you don’t go doing anything stupid like poking them, they’re not going to bother you. I’ve seen a lot of eels and never had any problems.

      Liked by 2 people

Comments are closed.