Moray eels are not intrinsically aggressive toward humans, but they can bite in self-defense if disturbed or provoked. Most encounters do not result in attacks, and bites are typically the consequence of hands or equipment intruding into their hiding spots or provoking the animal. The bites can be painful and carry a risk of infection, but they are not generally poisonous or fatal to humans. Key points to know
- Behavior: Moray eels prefer to retreat when possible and will bite when they feel threatened or are inadvertently touched or fed. They often hide in crevices, so divers and snorkelers should avoid reaching into holes or touching rocks where eels reside.
- Bite risks: The primary danger from a moray eel bite is mechanical injury and infection from the wound. Some species have sharp, backward-pointing teeth that can cause deep lacerations. There is no widespread evidence that morays are venomous to humans.
- Not commonly dangerous: Overall, encounters are rare and fatalities are exceedingly uncommon. Most guidance emphasizes prevention and cautious behavior around their habitats rather than fearing them as monsters.
Practical safety tips
- Do not poke, grab, or feed moray eels; maintain a clear distance and avoid placing hands or fins into crevices.
- When diving or snorkeling, move slowly and calmly around reef structures where morays hide; never surprise them by rapid movements.
- If bitten: promptly rinse the wound with clean water, remove jewelry near the area, seek medical evaluation to assess infection risk, and monitor for signs of infection or allergic reaction. Some bites may require stitches or antibiotics.
If you’d like, I can tailor these safety tips to a specific location (e.g., a particular dive site) or provide a quick checklist for moray eel encounters based on your planned activity.
