Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Perciformes
- Family
- Muraenidae
- Genus
- Muraena
- Species
- melanotis
Habitat
This species inhabits tropical and subtropical waters of the Atlantic Ocean, primarily in coral reefs, rocky crevices, and coastal areas with abundant hiding spots. It prefers depths from 1 to 50 meters, often in regions with strong currents and diverse marine structures. Geographic preferences include the western central Atlantic, such as around Brazil and the Canary Islands.
Diet
The Honeycomb moray primarily feeds on fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods like octopuses. It hunts nocturnally by ambushing prey from hiding spots, using its sharp teeth to grasp and swallow food whole. Feeding occurs mainly at night when it emerges from crevices to search for prey.
Behavior
Honeycomb morays are solitary and territorial, typically hiding in reef crevices during the day and becoming active hunters at night. They exhibit aggressive behavior when threatened, opening their mouths wide to display teeth as a warning. These eels are generally reclusive but can be curious around divers.
Conservation Status
Listed as Least Concern by IUCN.