Mastacembelus moorii
NameMastacembelus moorii
Scientific NameMastacembelus moorii
Common NamesTanganyika Spiny Eel, Moorii Spiny Eel
FamilyMastacembelidae
OriginAfrica, Lake Tanganyika
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)16
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)75-82
pH Range7.8-8.5
Compatible SpeciesLarger Tanganyikan Cichlids (e.g., Cyprichromis, Julidochromis, Neolamprologus species too large to be eaten), Synodontis Catfish
Description
The Mastacembelus moorii, also known as the Tanganyika Spiny Eel, is a fascinating elongated fish endemic to Lake Tanganyika. It features a distinctive pointed snout and a mottled brown and tan pattern, often with white spots on its lower jaw. This nocturnal species prefers to burrow in the substrate and is a predatory bottom-dweller.
