Green Moray Eel at The Boca Aquarium: A Photo Guide

The green moray eel is one of the most recognizable animals in The Boca Aquarium’s photo archive. Its long body can remain mostly hidden while the head projects from a gap in the rockwork. These photographs were taken at Diamonds by Raymond Lee in Boca Raton.

Why is a green moray green?

The National Aquarium’s species guide explains that the green appearance comes from yellow tinted mucus over a darker body. Aquarium lighting can also change how that color appears in photographs.

An open mouth is not always a threat

Morays regularly open and close their mouths to move water over their gills. That breathing movement exposes their teeth, even when they are resting. In other frames here, food is visible beside the eel; those images show feeding rather than resting behavior.

Watch the rockwork

Green morays inhabit the western Atlantic and use cracks and crevices as shelter. Looking carefully at the openings between rocks can reveal an eel that is easy to miss at first. Give it space and observe through the glass without tapping or attempting to feed it.

Planning a visit

This gallery records a past aquarium resident and display. Animals, exhibits and feeding arrangements can change. Contact Diamonds by Raymond Lee before visiting if you hope to see a particular animal or feeding. Our team can confirm what is currently on view and any instructions for visitors.