Goldentail Moray in Cozumel
Goldentail Moray (*Gymnothorax miliaris*) in Cozumel: how to identify it, where it is reliably seen, and what it is commonly confused with.
A dark brown eel covered in a fine gold net or speckle pattern, with a distinctly gold-yellow tail tip. Smaller and more slender than the other Cozumel morays.
Quick ID
| Scientific name | Gymnothorax miliaris |
|---|---|
| Group | Eels |
| Typical size | 40–70 cm |
| Depth range | 3–25 m |
| When to see it | Year-round |
| Active | Day and night |
| Conservation status | Least Concern |
| Notes | — |
Where You Will See It In Cozumel
Coral heads at Palancar Gardens, Yucab and Villa Blanca. More often visible during the day than other morays.
Reliable sites: Palancar Gardens, Yucab, Villa Blanca Wall.
Behaviour
More active by day than the green or spotted moray, and often seen free-swimming between coral heads rather than anchored in one hole.
Commonly Confused With
- Spotted moray — Fine dark speckles on cream, no gold tail tip.
- Chain moray — Chain morays have bold yellow chain-link markings and a blunt jaw.
Diving Etiquette And Safety
Hands out of holes.
Part of the Cozumel marine life guide · see Cozumel dive sites · plan your Cozumel dive trip
Photo: James St. John, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
