Zebra Moray Eel: The Peaceful & Striking Cracker
The Zebra Moray Eel (Gymnomuraena zebra) is a unique and sought-after eel known for its distinctive pattern of black and white bands that run the length of its body, giving it a striking appearance. Unlike many larger, more aggressive morays, this species is known for its peaceful and shy demeanor, making it an ideal choice for a community aquarium with fish. The Zebra Moray has a relatively small mouth with blunt, pavement-like teeth adapted for crushing the shells of its favorite prey: crabs and shrimp. This makes it fully reef-safe with fish, but not with crustaceans or other invertebrates it can consume. Providing plenty of hiding spots and a well-planted tank environment helps ensure the eel feels secure and reduces stress.
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Species | Gymnomuraena zebra |
| Size (adult) | Up to 18 inches |
| Temperament | Peaceful, shy |
| Compatible with | Fish only; not with crustaceans or invertebrates |
| Water Conditions | Temperature: 72–78°F, pH: 8.1–8.4, Salinity: 1.020–1.025 |
FAQ
Is the Zebra Moray Eel safe to keep with other fish?
Yes, the Zebra Moray Eel is generally peaceful and safe to keep with other fish in a properly sized aquarium. It prefers to hide and avoid confrontation, making it suitable for community tanks with non-aggressive species.
Can I keep a Zebra Moray Eel with shrimp or crabs?
No, the Zebra Moray Eel will eat crabs and shrimp. It is not compatible with crustaceans or other invertebrates.
What kind of tank setup is best for a Zebra Moray Eel?
A well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots such as caves, rock formations, or live plants is recommended. The tank should be at least 100 gallons to provide adequate space and security for the eel.
Jonathan Dickens –
The Zebra Moray Eel has been a great addition to our 120-gallon tank. It’s very quiet and mostly hides in the rockwork. We’ve had no issues with it attacking fish. Just make sure you don’t keep any shrimp or crabs around.
Leah Langdon –
It’s beautiful with its black and white stripes. It’s shy at first but settles into the tank after a few weeks. We keep it with a group of peaceful tangs and it coexists well.
Gordon Ince –
This eel is a real eye-catcher. It doesn’t eat much and stays mostly in the back corners. We’ve had it for six months and it’s still active and healthy.