Sieve Moray, Gymnothorax cribroris Whitley, 1932

Scientific name: Gymnothorax cribroris
Alternative name/s:
Sieve-Patterned Moray
Sieve Moray Click to enlarge image
A Sieve Moray at a depth of 4 m, the 'Pipeline', Port Stephens, New South Wales, May 2005. Image: David and Leanne Atkinson
© David and Leanne Atkinson

Fast Facts

  • Classification
    Genus
    Gymnothorax
    Species
    cribroris
    Family
    Muraenidae
    Class
    Actinopterygii
    Subphylum
    Vertebrata
    Phylum
    Chordata
    Kingdom
    Animalia
  • Size Range
    The species grows to about 45 cm in length.

Introduction

This blotchy patterned moray occurs on coastal reefs and estuaries, often in sheltered, silty waters.

Identification

The Sieve Moray varies from yellowish to dark brown. It has pale irregular spots. There are dark blotches behind the eyes.

Habitat

It occurs on coastal reefs and estuaries, often in sheltered, silty waters.

Distribution

The Sieve Moray is endemic to Australia, occuring off north-western Western Australia and southern Queensland to the central coast of New South Wales.

The map below shows the Australian distribution of the species based on public sightings and specimens in Australian Museums. Click on the map for detailed information. Source: Atlas of Living Australia.

Danger to humans

The Sieve Moray is not an aggressive species, but it does have sharp teeth.

References

  1. Böhlke, E.B. & J.E. McCosker. 2001. The moray eels of Australia and New Zealand, with the description of two new species (Anguilliformes: Muraenidae). Records of the Australian Museum. 53(1): 71-102.
  2. Castle, P.H.J. in Gomon, M.F., J.C.M. Glover & R.H. Kuiter (Eds). 1994. The Fishes of Australia's South Coast. State Print, Adelaide. Pp. 992.
  3. Kuiter, R.H. 2000. Coastal Fishes of South-eastern Australia. Gary Allen. Pp. 437.
  4. Kuiter, R.H. 1996. Guide to Sea Fishes of Australia. New Holland. Pp. 433.