Tire Track Eel (Mastacembelus armatus)

Fish in the family Mastacembelidae. Hard care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameMastacembelus armatus

FamilyMastacembelidae

Also known asTyre Track Eel, Zig-Zag Eel, Marbled Spiny Eel

Care levelHard

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentSemi-aggressive

DietCarnivore

Adult size30 in

Minimum tank size100 gallons

Water parametersTemp 73-82°F, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-19 dGH

Appearance

Long brown body covered in a maze-like zig-zag pattern of cream lines resembling tire tracks; pointed snout and continuous low dorsal-spine ridge.

Difficulty and care for the Tire Track Eel

Hard

Origin and habitat

South and Southeast Asia

Keeper notes

Large predatory eel that eats small fish and invertebrates; territorial toward other spiny eels. Best kept with robust mid-to-upper dwellers too large to be eaten. Notorious escape artist requiring a sealed lid.

Log Tire Track 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 Tire Track Eel alongside everything else in your reef.

Download Reef Trak See the full app