Many fishes cannot swim backwards. Not so with the eel. The absense of gill covers and of paired lateral fins enables them to back up through narrow openings and skillfully maneuver in the tight quarters of a coral reef. The scales on the eel are very small and their skin is coated with a clear, protective mucus layer. This helps them to maneuver through small openings without getting hung up.
Eels tend to hide in crevices during the day with only their head visible.
The honeycomb moray can grow up to 2 feet, whereas the green moray can reach 5 to 6 feet. Both species are on display at Mote Marine Laboratory Aquarium. Come, visit us for a great learning experience.