Spotfin Spiny Eel (Macrognathus siamensis)

Fish in the family Mastacembelidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameMacrognathus siamensis

FamilyMastacembelidae

Also known asSiamese Spiny Eel, Peacock Eel

Care levelModerate

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentPeaceful

DietCarnivore

Adult size12 in

Minimum tank size30 gallons

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

Appearance

Light brown slender body with a row of dark dorsal eyespots and faint mottling; slim pointed snout used to probe substrate.

Difficulty and care for the Spotfin Spiny Eel

Moderate

Origin and habitat

Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam

Keeper notes

Peaceful with fish too large to be eaten; predatory on shrimp and very small fish. Often confused with M. aculeatus in the trade. Can be territorial with conspecifics in small tanks.

Log Spotfin Spiny Eel in your reef tank

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