Ribbon Eel (Rhinomuraena quaesita)- Male

Serena Pata, Lembeh.
Here a few interesting facts for this nice eel:
The ribbon eel is the only moray eel that is protandric, which means that they can change from a male to female (protandry) should it become necessary for survival of the species in their area. All ribbon eels are born male. Juveniles and sub-adults are jet black with a yellow dorsal fin. The adult males are blue with a yellow dorsal fin.
As the adult male reaches full size (approximately 1 metre), it begins to turn into a female, and turns yellow. It will then mate, lay eggs, and die within about a month. Due to this short lifespan, female ribbon eels are a relatively rare sight.
Reference:
http://www.indigoscuba.com/15-amazing-facts-about-ribbon-eels/

comments (6)

Flown Kimmerling

Lion

Great shots, Marta! I had no idea that they were protandric! So interesting! Thank you for enlightening us. Posted 5 years ago
1. Patomarazul
  
  Lion
  
  Well, me neither! I knew of the three colors being juvenile, male and female but not that they are actually all one and the same! I think many humans may be envious of this capability :-D Posted 5 years ago

Barry

Lion

I just love that they always look like they are laughing! Posted 5 years ago
1. Patomarazul
  
  Lion
  
  Yes, moray eels always mouth opened :-D Posted 5 years ago

Christine Young

Lion

Awesome and so very interesting!! Posted 5 years ago
1. Patomarazul
  
  Lion
  
  Thanks! :-) Posted 5 years ago

The Ribbon eel

The ribbon eel (Rhinomuraena quaesita) or Bernis eel, is a species of moray eel, the only member of the genus Rhinomuraena. The ribbon eel is found in lagoons and reefs in the Indo-Pacific ocean, ranging from East Africa to southern Japan, Australia and French Polynesia.

Info 19 1

Similar species: Eels

Species identified by Patomarazul