Halfbanded Snake Eel (Leiuranus semicinctus)

Fish in the family Ophichthyidae. Expert care. Not Reef Safe.

Quick facts

Scientific nameLeiuranus semicinctus

FamilyOphichthyidae

Also known asSaddled Snake-Eel

Care levelExpert

Reef safetyNot Reef Safe

TemperamentSemi Aggressive

Dietcarnivore

Adult size24 in

Minimum tank size75 gallons

Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.026

Feeding scheduleEvery 2-3 days

Appearance

Leiuranus semicinctus is an elongated, serpentine eel with a distinctive pattern of alternating light and dark bands around the body. The head is moderately flattened, and the fish exhibits a cryptic coloration that aids in concealment within crevices and sandy substrates.

Diet and feeding

Feed small frozen or live foods including mysid shrimp, chopped krill, and small fish pieces. Offer food 2-3 times weekly; these eels do not require daily feeding and can subsist on occasional meals.

Difficulty and care for the Halfbanded Snake Eel

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Common health issues

Marine ich, Fin Rot, Swim Bladder Disease, Bacterial Infections, Fungal Infections

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, East Africa, and westward to the Indian Ocean.

Log Halfbanded Snake 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 Halfbanded Snake Eel alongside everything else in your reef.

Download Reef Trak See the full app