Two-Lined Snake Eel (Callechelys bilinearis)

Fish in the family Congridae. Hard care. Not Reef Safe.

Quick facts

Scientific nameCallechelys bilinearis

FamilyCongridae

Also known asTieso Dos Rayas

Care levelHard

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: 1.02-1.025

Feeding schedule2-3 times daily

Appearance

Callechelys bilinearis is a slender, elongate eel with a distinctive tan or pale body marked by two prominent dark lines running the length of its body. The snout is somewhat flattened, and the fish possesses small eyes typical of benthic eels. Adults reach approximately 24 inches in length.

Diet and feeding

Feed small marine meats such as finely chopped shrimp, small fish pieces, and frozen marine preparations. Offer 2–3 times weekly once acclimated; this species may be reluctant to feed initially and prefers to hunt at night.

Difficulty and care for the Two-Lined Snake Eel

This species is challenging for most hobbyists due to difficulty in acclimation, reluctance to feed in captivity, and incompatibility with reef systems. Best suited for experienced keepers with dedicated fish-only systems and patience for long adjustment periods.

Common health issues

Marine ich, Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder, Hole-in-the-head disease, Velvet disease

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific region, including the Great Barrier Reef and waters from Indonesia to the Philippines. Found in reef environments at moderate depths.

Log Two-Lined 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 Two-Lined Snake Eel alongside everything else in your reef.

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