Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Perciformes
- Family
- Muraenidae
- Genus
- Muraena
- Species
- lentiginosa
Habitat
Jewel morays inhabit coral reefs, rocky crevices, and shallow coastal waters in the tropical Eastern Pacific Ocean. They prefer depths from 1 to 30 meters where there is ample hiding space among rocks and corals. These areas are typically warm, with temperatures around 20-28°C.
Diet
Jewel morays primarily feed on small fish, crustaceans, and octopuses, using their sharp teeth to capture prey in crevices. They are nocturnal hunters, ambushing food at night in reef environments. Feeding behavior involves hiding during the day and emerging after dusk.
Behavior
Jewel morays are solitary and territorial, often 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 deterrent. These eels are generally reclusive but can be curious around divers.
Conservation Status
Listed as Least Concern by IUCN.