The Moray eel is also known as Muraenidae. Unlike many other animals, moray eels do not have a set season for mating. Instead they mate when they have enough food and a good habitat. Moray eels are oviparous, meaning the offspring hatches from eggs. Warm water increases the chances of successful mating. Female moray eels place the eggs in the water where they will be hidden from other predators. As the female places the eggs she also releases an odor, which enables a male to find the eggs and to release sperm. The eggs usually hatch five to six weeks after the male has released its sperm. After the eggs hatch, the newly-born moray eels fend for themselves. They are able to reproduce by the age of three.
This picture shows a moray eel protecting its eggs, which are located in the den.