Malta’s seabed is home to a rich and diverse ecosystem, much of which remains unexplored despite the growing popularity of its dive sites. Among the more elusive residents is the Moray Eel, or ‘Morina’ in Maltese. This nocturnal predator hides in rocky crevices during the day and emerges at night to hunt, making it a rare sight for most divers.

If you do encounter one, it will typically have a dark brownish-purple hue with yellow spots—but not always! Its colour can vary due to a protective mucus layer covering its body, which shields the eel from rough surfaces on the seabed. Caution is advised, as this slime can be mildly toxic to humans.

The Moray Eel’s menacing appearance isn’t just for show—it’s one of the few sea creatures in Malta that can pose a real threat to swimmers and divers. Its razor-sharp teeth are capable of inflicting serious injury, including the loss of fingers if provoked. To make matters worse, the eel swims with its mouth open, revealing those fearsome teeth—an intimidating sight, though this is simply how it breathes.

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One of the Moray’s most formidable features is its hidden ‘pharyngeal jaw,’ which allows it to latch onto prey with a near-inescapable grip. Once bitten, there’s little chance of escape unless the eel is killed.

While the Moray Eel is certainly a fearsome predator, you’re unlikely to encounter any danger as long as you avoid poking around crevices during the day and keep your distance during night dives. Stay aware, and you’ll be able to admire this mysterious creature from a safe distance!

Have you ever spotted a Moray Eel?