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, Spiny Eel
FamilyMastacembelidae
OriginSoutheast Asia, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Leveladvanced
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)39
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)75-82
pH Range6.5-7.5
Compatible SpeciesLarge Gouramis, Larger Barbs, Arowanas, Datz, Larger Catfish (e.g., Synodontis, Plecos), Larger Cichlids (e.g., Oscar, Jack Dempsey - with caution)
Description
The Fire Eel is a large, elongated freshwater fish recognized by its striking red and orange stripes over a dark body. These nocturnal bottom-dwellers are known for burrowing into soft substrate and require ample hiding spots. They are predatory carnivores that can live for many years in a well-maintained, spacious aquarium.
