The Mighty Komodo Dragon Defeated By Moray Eel

In the lush Indonesian archipelago at the Komodo National Park, a Komodo dragon, the apex predator of its habitat, tried engorging a moray eel. This was obviously a mistake. Here we compare the two parties of this encounter.

Komodo Dragon

Size

The Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) is the world’s largest lizard species and can grown up to 10 ft (3 m) long and weighing over 150 lb (68 kg).

Body

These creatures have muscular bodies and powerful limbs, allowing them to overpower prey much larger than themselves. Further, despite their size, Komodo dragons are surprisingly agile and fast when hunting or defending their territory.

Color

Their scaly skin is typically a combination of earthy tones, ranging from grey and brown to reddish-orange. Additionally, this camouflage helps them blend seamlessly into their surroundings, making them efficient hunters and ambush predators.

Moray Eel

Size

The moray eel (Muraenidae) is a powerful creature in it own right – except instead in water. Moray eels can grow to 5–10 ft (1.5–3 m) in length and weigh over 44 lb (20 kg). They secrete a protective mucus over their scaleless skin, which can be toxic to other animals.

Body

Moray eels have elongated and streamlined bodies, making them well-adapted for living in freshwater habitats, such as rivers, streams, and swamps.

Color

Moray eels usually have either dark brown or grayish spots against white, or whitish spots against brown/gray, which helps them blend into the murky waters where they reside.

The Culinary Encounter

The footage captured a Komodo dragon venturing into the shores of a river in search of prey, where it came across a seemingly dead moray eel. The Komodo dragon tried swallowing the eel, only to find the meal too big. How rude! The Komodo dragon was defeated by its meal.

How does the Komodo dragon hunt?

Komodo dragons are ambush predators that use their powerful limbs and muscular bodies to capture and kill prey efficiently.

Why was the Komodo dragon electrocuted by the moray eel?

The moray eel likely used an electric shock as a defense mechanism when the Komodo dragon attempted to consume it.

What is the significance of the moray eel’s mucus?

The mucus of moray eels can be toxic, serving as a defense mechanism against predators and helping protect them from infections.

What is the diet of a Komodo dragon?

Komodo dragons primarily feed on large prey such as deer, pigs, and water buffalo. They are also known to scavenge carcasses and can consume up to 80% of their body weight in one meal.

How do moray eels hunt their prey?

Moray eels are ambush predators that hide in crevices and strike quickly to catch fish, octopuses, and crustaceans with their sharp, backward-facing teeth.

What adaptations help moray eels survive?

Moray eels have a second set of jaws, called pharyngeal jaws, that help them grip and swallow prey. Their streamlined bodies and toxic mucus also aid in defense and hunting.

Are moray eels dangerous to humans?

While not typically aggressive, moray eels can inflict serious bites if provoked or threatened. Their bites can cause infections due to the bacteria in their mouths.

How long do Komodo dragons live?

Komodo dragons have a lifespan of around 30 years in the wild, although they may live longer in captivity due to better care and lack of predators.

What role do Komodo dragons play in their ecosystem?

As apex predators, Komodo dragons help control the populations of their prey, maintaining a balance in the ecosystem. They also scavenge, aiding in the decomposition process.

I’m sure the Komodo dragon gave that meal a 1 out 5-star review.

• About
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Kiah Bettison

Author at Animals Around The Globe. BSc Media Studies

Kiah is a Capetonian, fascinated by how each animal plays a significant part within our ecosystem, forming a bubble of life. As a nature lover and wave chaser, she finds solace in the waves and serenity in the great outdoors.

For any feedback please message Feedback@animalsaroundtheglobe.com

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