Fire Eel
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Jesaya_Li" title="User:Jesaya Li">Jesaya Li</a> (CC BY 4.0)
NameFire Eel
Scientific NameMastacembelus erythrotaenia
Common NamesFire Eel, Red-banded Spiny Eel, Red-fin Spiny Eel
FamilyMastacembelidae
OriginSoutheast Asia, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Myanmar
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)125
Max Size (Inches)39
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)75-82
pH Range6.5-7.5
Compatible SpeciesLarge Gouramis, Larger Rainbowfish, Silver Dollars, Larger Barbs, Severum Cichlids, Large Catfish
Description
The Fire Eel is a large, elongated freshwater fish known for its distinctive red and black striped pattern. They are nocturnal and enjoy burrowing in soft substrate or hiding among decor. Despite their size, they can be shy but are predatory towards smaller tankmates.
