Dragon Moray Eel - Medium (Enchelycore pardalis)

Why it is a Collector's Vault fish: The Dragon Moray is one of the most sought-after eels in the hobby. Its orange to reddish-brown body is covered in white spots, and its curved jaws, visible teeth and tall tubular nostrils above the eyes give it its dragon-like look. Few are collected each year, so availability is limited and prices stay high.

Quick Facts

• Scientific name: Enchelycore pardalis
• Origin: Indo-Pacific
• Size: Medium
• Care level: Medium
• Reef safe: Yes (does not eat corals; will eat fish, shrimp and crabs)
• Temperament: Aggressive
• Max size: About 36 inches
• Minimum aquarium: 180 gallons
• Diet: Carnivore
• Water: 72-78°F, pH 8.1-8.4, specific gravity 1.020-1.025

Compatibility

• Good tankmates: Large, robust fish such as large angelfish, tangs and triggers
• Avoid: Small fish, shrimp and crabs (all are food); other eels in smaller systems

Care Notes

• Needs a large aquarium with secure caves and rockwork
• A tight-fitting lid is required, as morays are skilled escape artists
• Leaves corals alone, but will eat fish and crustaceans that fit in its mouth
• Feed meaty foods such as silversides, squid and shrimp; use feeding tongs, as bites are serious

How to Buy, Pickup & Shipping

• Conditioned (7-Day Hold): your fish usually reaches us the day after you order. We then hold it for at least 7 days to inspect it, make sure it is eating and check for any sign of disease before it goes home with you. Covered by our Collector's Vault Guarantee.
• Direct - Save 15%: released as soon as it arrives, with no conditioning period. Sold as-is with no live arrival or health guarantee.
• Store pickup in Sugar Land, or $100 flat-rate FedEx Priority Overnight shipping within the continental U.S. (ships Monday through Thursday; weather holds as needed).
• Full terms: Collector's Vault Shipping & Guarantee.