Peacock Spiny Eel (Macrognathus aculeatus)

Fish in the family Mastacembelidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameMacrognathus aculeatus

FamilyMastacembelidae

Also known asPeacock Eel, Spotfin Spiny Eel

Care levelModerate

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentPeaceful

DietCarnivore

Adult size14 in

Minimum tank size35 gallons

Water parametersTemp 73-82°F, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 4-16 dGH

Appearance

Slender tan-to-grey body with several iridescent eyespots (ocelli) along the rear dorsal fin and a pointed flexible snout.

Difficulty and care for the Peacock Spiny Eel

Moderate

Origin and habitat

Southeast Asia

Keeper notes

One of the more peaceful spiny eels and a good community oddball with fish too large to swallow, but will eat dwarf shrimp and tiny fish. Can squabble with other bottom dwellers over territory.

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

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