Fire Eel (Mastacembelus erythrotaenia)

Fish in the family Mastacembelidae. Hard care. Freshwater.

Fire Eel

Quick facts

Scientific nameMastacembelus erythrotaenia
FamilyMastacembelidae
Also known asFire Spiny Eel, Red-Striped Spiny Eel
Care levelHard
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentSemi-aggressive
DietCarnivore
Adult size36 in
Minimum tank size125 gallons
Water parametersTemp 75-82°F, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 4-18 dGH

Appearance

Elongated dark brown to black eel-like body marked with brilliant red to orange longitudinal stripes and spots; pointed proboscis-like snout and a row of dorsal spines.

Difficulty and care for the Fire Eel

Hard

Origin and habitat

Southeast Asia (Mekong, Sumatra, Borneo)

Keeper notes

One of the largest spiny eels reaching 3ft; will eat any tankmate small enough to swallow including shrimp and small fish. Generally peaceful with fish too large to eat but can be territorial with its own kind. Needs a tight lid and secure escape-proof setup.

Log Fire Eel in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Fire Eel alongside everything else in your reef.