Marbled Spiny Eel (Mastacembelus favus)

Fish in the family Mastacembelidae. Hard care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameMastacembelus favus

FamilyMastacembelidae

Also known asHoneycomb Spiny Eel, Favus Eel

Care levelHard

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentSemi-aggressive

DietCarnivore

Adult size28 in

Minimum tank size100 gallons

Water parametersTemp 73-82°F, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-18 dGH

Appearance

Long brown body covered in a honeycomb-like network of pale-ringed dark blotches, with a pointed snout and low spiny dorsal ridge.

Difficulty and care for the Marbled Spiny Eel

Hard

Origin and habitat

Southeast Asia (Mekong basin)

Keeper notes

A large spiny eel often confused with the tire-track eel; preys on small fish and shrimp and can be territorial toward other eels. House with robust tankmates too large to eat. Strong escape artist needing a sealed lid.

Log Marbled Spiny 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 Marbled Spiny Eel alongside everything else in your reef.

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