Black Edge Moray Eel (Gymnothorax saxicola)

Fish in the family Muraenidae. Expert care. Not Reef Safe.

Quick facts

Scientific nameGymnothorax saxicola

FamilyMuraenidae

Care levelExpert

Reef safetyNot Reef Safe

TemperamentSemi Aggressive

Dietcarnivore

Adult size28 in

Minimum tank size125 gallons

Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.023-1.025

Feeding scheduleEvery 2-3 days

Appearance

Dark brown to blackish body with a characteristic black or very dark edge along the gill opening and jaw margins. Elongated, serpentine body typical of moray eels with a pointed snout and relatively small eyes.

Diet and feeding

Feed frozen or live shrimp, small fish, and squid 2–3 times per week. Black Edge Morays are opportunistic feeders but should not be overfed. Offer appropriately sized prey to avoid feeding stress.

Difficulty and care for the Black Edge Moray Eel

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, East Africa, and extending to Hawaii and French Polynesia.

Log Black Edge Moray Eel in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Black Edge Moray Eel alongside everything else in your reef.

Download Reef Trak See the full app