Moray eels
Red Sea spotted moray (Gymnothorax punctatus)
The Red Sea spotted moray (Gymnothorax punctatus) belongs to the family Muraenidae (moray eels) and is endemic to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. It is a carnivore and usually seen alone. It reaches about 70 cm and is found at 1–50 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Least Concern. Treat it with caution (caution): do not touch or handle it.
Quick facts
| Scientific name | Gymnothorax punctatus |
|---|---|
| Family | Moray eels (Muraenidae) |
| Common name (IT) | Murena punteggiata |
| Common name (EN) | Red Sea spotted moray |
| Maximum size | 70 cm |
| Depth | 1–50 m |
| Distribution | Endemic to the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden |
| IUCN status | LC — Least Concern |
| Hazard | Caution |
Description
Endemic to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden; it does not occur elsewhere in the Indo-Pacific.
Diving hazard — Caution: keep your distance, and never touch, corner or feed it.
Where it lives
Endemic to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden; it does not occur elsewhere in the Indo-Pacific.
- Red Sea
- Gulf of Aden
Diving safety
Caution. This is a predator or a fish with a strong bite. It is not looking for people — watch from a distance, do not touch, chase or feed it.
If it happens
- For a bite: leave the water, control bleeding with direct pressure, clean the wound.
After
- Marine bites infect readily — seek medical care and tetanus cover.
Frequently asked questions
- What family does the Red Sea spotted moray belong to?
- The Red Sea spotted moray (Gymnothorax punctatus) belongs to the family Muraenidae (moray eels).
- Is the Red Sea spotted moray dangerous?
- It needs caution: Caution. Keep your distance and do not touch or handle it.
- Is the Red Sea spotted moray endemic to the Red Sea?
- Yes — it lives only in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
- How big does the Red Sea spotted moray get?
- It reaches a maximum length of about 70 cm.
Explore the Red Sea spotted moray in 3D in the interactive atlas →