Blackcheek moray eel facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Blackcheek moray eel |
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The blackcheek moray eel or masked moray (Gymnothorax breedeni) is a type of fish that lives in the ocean. It belongs to the moray eel family, which are known for their long, snake-like bodies.
Where It Lives
The blackcheek moray eel lives in warm, tropical waters. You can find it across the Indo-Pacific region. This area stretches from the eastern coast of Africa all the way to islands in the Pacific Ocean, like Polynesia. However, it does not live near Hawaii. This moray is very common on the coral reefs of the Maldives.
Its Home in the Ocean
This moray eel prefers clear, open reefs near oceanic islands. It often lives in coral rock that has many holes. You can also find it in reef walls and steep slopes with lots of hiding spots. It likes reefs made of broken coral pieces and debris, where it finds shelter. These eels often live on the outer slopes of reefs, usually between 4 and 40 meters deep.
What It Looks Like
The blackcheek moray eel is a medium-sized fish. It can grow up to 100 centimeters (about 3.3 feet) long. However, most morays you see are usually smaller. Its body is brown and covered with many darker spots.
This moray is easy to spot because of a large, uneven black patch. This patch starts near its eye and goes to the corner of its mouth. This is why it's called the "blackcheek moray eel." Also, the opening for its gills and its anal opening are black.
How It Behaves
The blackcheek moray is usually a solitary animal. This means it likes to live alone. It is also very territorial. If something new enters its space, it might bite it.
This moray eel also lives alongside other creatures. It often associates with cleaner shrimps and Anthias fish. The moray eel hunts for food at night. It comes out of its hiding place to eat fish and octopuses.
See also
In Spanish: Gymnothorax breedeni para niños
