Species Description…

Scientific Name: Echidna catenata

Common Name: Chain Moray Eel

Species Group: Moray Eels

Habitat: Reef Safe with Caution

Care Level: Intermediate

Temperament: Predatory

Diet Type: Carnivore

Role in Aquarium: Predator

Max Fish Length: 28 (inches)

Min Aquarium Size: 75 (gallons)

Native Range: Western Atlantic, Caribbean

Echidna Catenata - The Chain Moray Eel

Echidna Catenata (The Chain Moray Eel)

Native to the Western Atlantic, primarily inhabiting shallow coastal reefs, rocky outcrops, and seagrass beds.
Distinguished by its unique chain-like patterning, featuring bold interlocking black, brown, or yellowish bands.
An intriguing and robust species renowned for its secretive behavior and fascinating hunting techniques.
Nocturnal and solitary by nature, usually hiding within caves or rocky crevices during the day and becoming active at night.
Thrives in large aquariums with plenty of sturdy rock structures, ample hiding places, and stable water parameters.

Carnivorous, mainly preying on small fish, crustaceans, and marine invertebrates in its natural habitat.
Captive diet should consist of frozen seafood, including squid, krill, shrimp, and small fish.
Can be easily trained to accept frozen and prepared marine diets, though initial live feeding may be necessary.
Typically fed two to three times per week, with meals sized appropriately to prevent obesity and water quality issues.
A varied, protein-rich diet maintains health, growth, and vibrant coloration.

Prefers shallow reef environments, rocky shorelines, and seagrass beds with ample crevices and caves for hiding.
Frequently seen with only its head protruding from rocky structures, observing the surroundings quietly.
Aquarium setups should provide ample rock formations, stable structures, and hiding spots to replicate natural conditions.
Requires stable water quality, moderate water flow, and efficient filtration to thrive.
Providing a variety of secure hiding spots reduces stress and supports natural behavior patterns.

Optimal water temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C), maintaining proper metabolic rates and overall health.
Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, with consistent salinity maintained at 1.020-1.025.
Regular water changes, vigilant monitoring, and effective filtration are critical to maintaining excellent water quality.
Not considered reef-safe, as it may consume smaller fish and ornamental invertebrates.
Maintaining proper environmental conditions and providing sufficient feeding minimizes stress and promotes longevity.

Best kept with similarly sized or larger marine species due to its predatory nature.
Compatible with robust, semi-aggressive fish such as large angelfish, triggers, groupers, and larger wrasses.
Avoid housing with smaller or slow-moving fish and delicate invertebrates, as these are likely prey.
Thrives best in predator-focused or species-specific aquariums with adequate space and structural complexity.
Providing ample hiding areas and stable territory structures helps manage aggression and stress levels.

Nocturnal and secretive, often remaining hidden during daylight and becoming active at dusk and night.
Frequently observed partially emerging from hiding spots, cautiously exploring its surroundings when hunting.
Known to exhibit fascinating hunting behaviors, capturing prey swiftly and efficiently.
Providing a secure and naturalistic environment encourages typical behavioral patterns and reduces stress.
Over time, can become accustomed to human presence, showing interest and responsiveness during feeding times.