The ribbon eel (Rhinomuraena
quaesita) is a species of saltwater eel and it is the only member of the genus
Rhinomuraena of the Muraenidae (Moray eel) family of the order of
Anguilliformes. Though it is now known as Rhinomuraena quaesita but it also
includes the former Rhinomuraena amboinensis.
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| Ribbon eel in juveniles |
Unlike most other eels, ribbon eels
change color and sex during their life. The eel is an elegant creature with a
long, thin body and high dorsal fins and it can easily be recognized by its
expanded anterior nostrils. Juveniles and sub-adults are nearly black with a
yellow dorsal fin. As they mature, a female becomes yellow with a black anal
fin with white margins on the fins and the adult males are blue with a yellow
dorsal fin. The ribbon eel have leaflike nostril flaps, which sense vibrations
in the water. The eel grows to an overall length of 100 (approx) cm and has a
life span of up to twenty years.
Unfortunately, the ribbon eel is a
difficult fish to keep though it is one of the most interesting of the moray
species. It has several unique characteristics that are why it should place in
its own family, the Rhinomuraenidae.
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| A pair of adult Ribbon eel |
Ribbon eels make striking display
sea creature for the home aquarium, but in some captive setups they may refuse
to feed. To help initiate feeding in a stubborn ribbon eel provide adequate
hiding places, so your eel feels secure. The ribbon eel is native to the Indian
and Pacific oceans and live on coral reefs, mostly hiding in crevices.
Be aware that ribbon eels are
especially proficient at finding small cracks and holes in the aquarium back
stripping to exit through. Finally if it is possible to keep a ribbon eels in
your aquarium, you need to be willing to give it special care.
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