Enchelycore nycturanus, a new moray eel from South Africa (Teleostei: Anguilliformes: Muraenidae)

Abstract

Enchelycore nycturanus, a new species of moray eel, is described from the east coast of South Africa. It has slightly arched jaws that leave some teeth exposed when the mouth is closed. It has triserial maxillary teeth, biserial mandibular teeth, and its intermaxillary teeth are in five rows. Along with the dentition, its vertebral count (147-148) and its color pattern of white spots on a dark background distinguish it from all other morays. It is known only from the type locality and may be restricted to South Africa.