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Freshwater Moray

Freshwater Moray

Gymnothorax polyuranodon

Quick Facts

Scientific name Gymnothorax polyuranodon

Other names Blackspotted Moray, Manytoothed Moray, Spotted Freshwater Moray

Size Up to 1.5 m (4.92 ft)

Weight Up to 5 kg (11 lb)

Distribution

Habitat & AU Distribution Fresh & brackish waters in creeks & streams near rocks & boulders of deeper pools - marine larvae

Depth Range 0 - 10 m (33 ft)

Interesting Info

The freshwater moray is a species of eel that is found in Australia, particularly in the freshwater rivers and streams of northern Queensland.
It has small eyes, a large mouth, and a long, cylindrical body with no scales. The freshwater moray has a dark brown or blackish coloration, and it has a thick, muscular body.
It has a unique breathing mechanism, which allows it to take in oxygen through its skin and mouth. This species is capable of surviving in both freshwater and brackish water.
The freshwater moray is a nocturnal predator and feeds mainly on fish, crustaceans, and other small aquatic animals.
The breeding habits of freshwater morays are not well understood, but it is believed that they migrate to the sea to spawn.
The estimated lifespan is between 10 to 15 years.

Species Interaction

Recreational Fishing & Aquariums

Freshwater moray eels are not commonly targeted by recreational anglers, but are by certain communities that consider them a delicacy. In addition, some people find freshwater moray eels fascinating and rewarding to keep in their aquariums due to their unique appearance and interesting behaviours.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Actinopterygii

Order: Anguilliformes

Family: Muraenidae

Genus: Gymnothorax

Species: Gymnothorax polyuranodon

Conservation Status

The conservation status of the freshwater moray is currently listed as “Data Deficient” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. This means that there is insufficient information available about the population and distribution of the species to determine its conservation status.