Gymnothorax funebris Reef Safe With Caution The Green Moray Eel (Gymnothorax funebris), also known simply as the Green Eel, is a powerful and imposing species best suited for experienced aquarists or public aquariums. Despite its name, the eel's skin is actually brown or dark gray—its signature green hue comes from a protective mucus coating that helps fend off parasites and infections. In the wild, it forms symbiotic relationships with cleaner shrimp and gobies that help remove parasites and dead skin from its body and mouth. This "true" eel features an elongated dorsal fin that runs continuously from its head down to its tail, merging with the anal and caudal fins. It often opens and closes its mouth to facilitate respiration, revealing multiple rows of sharp teeth—two rows on the upper jaw and one on the lower—used for grasping prey. Juveniles are often sold at just over a foot in length, but these eels grow quickly, often exceeding 5 to 6 feet in captivity, and can reach over 7 feet in the wild. While visually striking, the Green Moray Eel can become aggressive as it matures. It is a known escape artist that will exploit any opening in the tank lid and has been known to bite its owner's hand during feeding. It should not be kept with smaller tank mates, as it will eventually consume them. A large, secure aquarium is a must, with plenty of rockwork and hiding spaces. Their diet should consist of live fish and a variety of meaty foods. Given their size, strength, and potential for injury, this species is not recommended for most home aquariums and is better suited to large, professional setups. These fish are for saltwater aquariums only. Due to variations within species, your item may not look identical to the image. Measurements are measured from the tip of the head to end of the tail. For acclimation details see here.
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