Peppered Moray

Gymnothorax pictus, commonly known as the painted moray, paintspotted moray, or peppered moray, is a species of moray eel colloquially referred to as "títugi" in Chamorro. This species is characterized by its pale coloration accented with purplish speckles, which become more pronounced as the eel matures. Juvenile specimens lack these markings and feature a pale purplish hue with white underbellies. The painted moray can reach a maximum length of approximately 140 cm and primarily feeds on small fish and crustaceans. It shares similarities with Gymnothorax griseus.

Notably, Gymnothorax pictus exhibits unique predatory behavior, frequently venturing completely out of the water or leaping above the water's surface while hunting. It is important to note that consumption of this eel is considered hazardous due to its poisonous nature.

The nomenclature for the painted moray was initially established by Solander in an unpublished manuscript, with Richardson initially hypothesizing it as Muraena siderea. Upon further analysis, Richardson differentiated the species by its distinct coloration, which ultimately led to a formal recognition of Gymnothorax pictus as a separate species, thanks also to contributions by Kuep and Blecker, who refined its classification.

Gymnothorax pictus is prevalent in the tropical marine waters of the Indo-Pacific region and can be found as far as the islands in the tropical Eastern Pacific. It frequently inhabits shallow waters on reef flats. Documented locations of its presence include Suva Reef, the 🇫🇯 Fiji Islands, Clarion Island, and the Revillagigedo Islands.