Moray eels (Family Muraenidae) make up one of the largest families of bony fishes in Hawai’i, with more species (over 40) than any other fish family than perhaps the wrasses (Family Labridae). Their abundance cannot be truly appreciated because most species are small and remain well hidden within the reef.
What types of eels live in Hawaii?
Eels (Congridae, Muraenidae, Ophichthidae) Overview
There are hundreds species of eels, but in Hawaii, only moray eels, conger eels and snake eels can be spotted by divers and snorkelers. Their collective Hawaiian name is puhi, and some of them were revered as a food source.
Where do eels live in Hawaii?
There are about 38 different types of eels in Hawaii and they can be found among the ledges and crevices of our shallow, coastal waters. Hawaiian eels come in a wide variety of patterns, colors and sizes ranging from the often-seen Yellowmargin Moray Eel to the more elusive Dragon Moray Eel.
Where can you find a moray eel?
The green moray is found in the western Atlantic Ocean, from New Jersey to Bermuda, and the northern Gulf of Mexico southward to Brazil. This solitary animal hides among cracks and crevices, along rocky shorelines and in coral reefs. The green moray feeds mostly at night on fishes, crabs, shrimp, octopuses and squid.
Are moray eels in Maui?
With over 35 different types of moray eels living in Hawaiian waters, the moray eel, called “puhi” in Hawaiian, represents one of the most common families of bony fishes found in Hawaii.
What to do if a moray eel bites you?
What to do immediately after a moray eel bite
- Wash small, superficial wounds immediately with soap and water.
- Put pressure on the wound to stop the bleeding.
- Apply antibacterial ointment and cover with a sterile bandage.
- Take an at-home pain reliever, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil).
Do eels in Hawaii bite?
Hawaii doesn’t track how many eel bites happen each year, but experts say most happen when someone is spearfishing or accidentally puts a limb into an eel’s hole. Craig Thomas, an emergency physician on Oahu, said he’s treated about 15 to 20 eel bites in the last 30 years. Less severe ones may go unreported, he said.
Are moray eels aggressive?
As menacing as they appear, moray eels are not considered aggressive but have been known to defend their lairs by quickly biting any perceived danger.
What type of eels are in Maui?
While eels are often seen in the reefs of Maui, the Yellowmargin Moray eel is the most common. Staying hidden in the reef during the day, they are sometimes difficult to spot.
Are there eels in Oahu?
In short yes there are. Eels are not a fish that seeks out human companionship. Therefore extreme caution should be given to these animals when you are in their area. Moray eels are different from other types of eel species being thick, smooth, and without scales like fish.
Can moray eels shock you?
They have three electric organs that contain cells called electrocytes. When the electric eel senses prey or feels threatened by a predator, electrocytes create an electrical current that can release up to 600 volts (if you are unlucky enough to be shocked by 600 volts, it won’t kill you on its own, but it will hurt).
Do moray eels eat humans?
Can a moray eel kill you? Technically, a moray eel could kill you. If the bite itself didn’t kill you, a secondary infection in the bite could be deadly. But examples of moray eels killing people by attacking them are virtually non-existent.
Are moray eels friendly?
Moray eel can look for contact with divers : do not confuse this with an act of friendship. They rub themselves to eliminate parasites present on their smooth skin! But remember that it is not good for them to be touch by your hands at the potential risk of transmitting your own bacteria.
Are there eels in Hawaii?
There are three species of conger eels in Hawaiian waters, but only the black margin and Hawaiian mustache congers are natives. Commonly known as ‘white eels’ in Hawaii, the conger was once an important food source and is still popular in sushi. This descriptively named eel is long, slim, and cylindrical.
Are there sea snakes in Maui?
Hawaii has one sea snake, the yellow-bellied sea snake (Pelamis platurus.)
What eats the moray eel?
Moray eels have few predators. Their predators are usually the apex predator in their ecosystem. Grouper, barracuda, sharks, and humans are common predators of moray eels.
Is it safe to touch a moray eel?
You should never touch a moray eel, it is one of the most dangerous creatures you will come across while diving. You may not get bitten every time and there is no need to take unwanted risks.
Are moray eels intelligent?
Are moray eels intelligent? Yes. While it can be difficult to determine the intelligence of fish species, moray eels are thought to be cleverer than most. They can cooperate with other fish for hunting purposes, and they can learn the routines of their prey to better stalk them and flush them out.
How big do moray eels get?
Moray eels are usually vividly marked or coloured. They generally do not exceed a length of about 1.5 metres (5 feet), but one species, Thyrsoidea macrurus of the Pacific, is known to grow about 3.5 metres (11.5 feet) long.
Do eels harm humans?
Human deaths from electric eels are extremely rare. However, multiple shocks can cause respiratory or heart failure, and people have been known to drown in shallow water after a stunning jolt.
How can eels hurt you?
An adult eel can produce a lethal 600 volts of electrical energy, which is enough to kill you or, if you live, leave you incapacitated for years.
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