The Chestnut Moray (Gymnothorax castaneus) is a species of moray eel found in the eastern Pacific Ocean, ranging from Baja California, Mexico, to Peru, including the Galápagos Islands. It inhabits rocky reefs and coral formations at depths of 3 to 40 meters (10 to 130 feet), often hiding in crevices during the day. It is a nocturnal predator: Primarily hunts at night, feeding on fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods.
It is an ambush hunter using its strong jaws and sharp teeth to capture prey. It is solitary and territorial. Prefers to stay hidden in rock crevices and coral reefs, emerging mainly to hunt.