Did you know that green moray eels are often feared and mistaken for sea serpents?

The green moray is actually brown! The yellow tint of the mucus that covers its body, in combination with a drab background color, gives the fish its namesake green color.

The moray eel is considered a “true” eel, classified in the order Anguilliformes. Like other true eels, the moray’s dorsal fin begins just behind its head, extends along the length of its body and is fused with the caudal (tail) and anal fins. The moray eel also lacks both pelvic and pectoral fins.

The moray’s muscular, scaleless body is laterally compressed (flattened side to side), and this eel is often feared and mistaken for a sea serpent.

Part of their vicious reputation may come from the fact that they habitually open and close their mouths, which shows off their sharp teeth. Although this behavior may appear threatening, the eel is actually taking in water to breathe. The water passes over the gills and exits through vent-like openings at the back of the head.

Learn more about the green moray eel!