Mediterranean Moray

Photo: Martin Grimm · CC BY-NC

Giant moray eels at Formigas reach well over 1.5 m and inhabit nearly every substantial crevice on the basalt reef, often resting with their heads exposed beside cleaning shrimp stations. The reserve's no-take rules have allowed a resident population to build over decades, making encounters practically guaranteed on any dive. They share territories peaceably with large conger eels, an unusual cohabitation that reflects the exceptional productivity of this site.