Mediterranean Moray or Roman Eel

The Mediterranean moray, scientifically known as Muraena helena, is a serpent-like fish frequently found in our seas. With a dark brown hue adorned with yellow spots, this creature sports numerous sharp teeth, gripping tenaciously onto anything it seizes. Inhabiting rocky seabeds close to the coast, it prefers depths ranging from 5 to 100 metres.

By day, the moray rests in its refuge, revealing only its head. When night falls, it emerges to hunt, guided by its keen sense of smell. Its diet includes molluscs, fish, and carrion. Interestingly, to maintain dental hygiene, it willingly opens its mouth to cleaner shrimp, exchanging food scraps for a thorough tooth-cleaning session. The Mediterranean moray does not live up to its notorious reputation, refraining from attacks unless provoked.

Photographs by Theano Dandari

Witness the fascinating Mediterranean moray in the tanks of the Aquarium of Crete.