The moray eel is a large species of eel found in warm and temperate waters all around the world. There are around 200 different species that can range in size from just 10cm long to nearly 2 meters in length.
The moray eel is a relatively secretive animal, spending much of its time hiding in holes and crevices amongst the rocks and coral on the ocean floor. By spending the majority of their time hiding, moray eels are able to remain out of sight from predators and are also able to ambush any unsuspecting prey that passes.
Due to the small size of the gills, morays have to continuously open and close their mouths in a gaping fashion to maintain a flow of water and facilitate respiration.
via: a-z-animals // Photo 1: Robert Palmer // Photo 2: Mike Gerrie