Como identificar Mediterranean Moray

Para identificar Mediterranean Moray (Muraena helena), observe estas características principais.

Características físicas

Formato do corpo

eel-like

Coloração

Dark brown to black background with irregular, yellowish-white to cream-colored blotches and spots that form a marbled or reticulated pattern. The head often has a darker, more uniform coloration. The inside of the mouth is typically white.

Tipo de escama

none

Posição da boca

terminal

Características distintivas

Elongated, serpentine body without scales, Large, powerful jaws with sharp, conical teeth, Absence of pectoral and pelvic fins, Continuous dorsal, caudal, and anal fin fold, Prominent anterior and posterior nostrils

Nadadeira dorsal

Originates just behind the head and runs continuously along the back, merging with the caudal and anal fins.

Nadadeira caudal

Rounded, continuous with dorsal and anal fins, forming a single fin fold.

Nadadeira peitoral

Absent

Nadadeiras características

Pelvic fins are also absent. The dorsal and anal fins are low and fleshy, forming a continuous fringe around the posterior part of the body.

Dicas de identificação

1. 1

   Body Shape and Fins

   Look for the characteristic elongated, snake-like body and the complete absence of pectoral and pelvic fins. The dorsal, caudal, and anal fins form a continuous fringe.

2. 2

   Coloration and Pattern

   Observe the dark brown to black body with irregular, yellowish-white to cream-colored blotches and spots. This marbled pattern is a key identifier.

3. 3

   Head and Mouth

   Note the robust head, prominent nostrils, and the large mouth with sharp, conical teeth. The white interior of the mouth is often visible when the moray is 'breathing' (opening and closing its mouth).

4. 4

   Size

   Adults can reach considerable sizes, up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) in length and weigh over 15 kg (33 lbs), though average size is around 80-100 cm (31-39 inches).

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