A giant moray eel is being cleaned by a bluestreak cleaner wrasse. The wrasse eats parasites and dead tissue off the skin and teeth of the eel. The eel recognizes the smaller wrasse and will position its body for optimum cleaning. The eel will not eat the wrasse. Giant moray eels are predators of smaller fish. They have been observed helping coral groupers (another marine fish) hunt.
This mutualistic relationship between the giant moray eel and the bluestreak cleaner wrasse is a well-known example of cleaning symbiosis in marine ecosystems. The giant moray eel benefits from the cleaning service provided by the wrasse, which helps keep its skin and teeth free from parasites and dead tissues. In return, the wrasse gains a steady source of food.
The eel recognizes the cleaner wrasse and positions its body in a way that allows the wrasse to have easy access to different parts of its body. The wrasse uses its specialized tooth-like structures to remove parasites and dead skin, benefitting from a nutritious meal without the risk of being eaten.
It is interesting to note that giant moray eels, who are typically predators of smaller fish, behave unusually when it comes to the interaction with cleaner fish. They allow cleaner fish to enter their territories and actively seek their services. This behavior is likely driven by the benefits the eels receive from being cleaned, which can help improve their overall health and reduce the risk of infection.
Additionally, giant moray eels have been observed cooperating with other fish species, such as coral groupers, during hunting. They work together to flush out prey fish from their hiding spots, increasing the chances of successful hunting for both species. This is an example of mutualism between two predator species, where they collaborate to improve their hunting efficiency.
Overall, these interactions highlight the complexity and interconnectedness of marine ecosystems, where different species can form mutually beneficial relationships to enhance their survival and well-being.