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Ribbon Eel

Rhinomuraena

Size – The size of the ribbon eel can vary, but adult eels are typically 60-90 centimeters (24-35 inches) in length, with some individuals reaching lengths of over 1 meter (3.3 feet). 

The ribbon eel, also known as the blue ribbon eel, is a species of moray eel within the family Muraenidae. It is known for its distinctive appearance, with a long, ribbon-like body and a distinctive blue coloration.

The ribbon eel is blue in color, with a white belly and a distinctive yellow stripe running along the length of the body. It has small eyes and a long, slender body, with no pelvic or pectoral fins.

The ribbon eel has a unique method of breathing, which involves using its gills to extract oxygen from the water. This allows it to survive in low-oxygen environments.


The ribbon eel is found in the tropical waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, including the Great Barrier Reef and the Red Sea. It is typically found in shallow, coastal environments, such as coral reefs and rocky shores, where it can hide among rocks and crevices. 

The ribbon eel is a solitary and reclusive species, and little is known about its specific habitat preferences. It is typically found at depths of less than 30 meters (98 feet), and is usually not found in deep, open ocean environments.

The ribbon eel is a carnivorous species and feeds on small fish, crustaceans, and other small animals.

 It uses its long, slender body to move through the water and capture prey, and is known to feed on a variety of prey depending on its size and location. The specific diet of a ribbon eel will vary depending on the availability of food in its environment.


The ribbon eel is a solitary and reclusive species, and little is known about its behavior. It is typically found hiding among rocks and crevices in shallow, coastal environments, and emerges at night to hunt for food. 

Like other species of eel, the ribbon eel is likely nocturnal and spends the day resting or hiding. It is not known to migrate long distances or engage in complex social behavior. The specific behavior of a ribbon eel will depend on the individual and its environment.

The ribbon eel is a member of the family Congridae, which includes all of the eels in the suborder Congroidei. This family contains around 300 species of eels, which are found in both marine and freshwater habitats.

The ribbon eel is a popular aquarium fish, and is often kept in saltwater tanks by hobbyists. However, it can be difficult to care for, as it requires a special diet and a carefully controlled environment. Despite these challenges, many aquarists enjoy keeping ribbon eels, as they are fascinating and beautiful animals.


Ribbon Eel Clickable
By Mint_Images - Envato Elements
Ribbon Eel Photo 2
Blue Ribbon Eel by joebelanger - Envato Elements
Blue Ribbon Eel Photo
"File:Blue ribbon Eel fish on Pom Pom Island, Celebes resort, Sabah.jpg" by Profmauri is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.