Fire Eel - 25cm

Fire Eel (Mastacembelus erythrotaenia)

The Fire Eel is a strikingly patterned member of the spiny eel family, native to river systems across Southeast Asia, including the islands of Java and Sumatra in Indonesia. In the wild, they are commonly found in slow-moving, shallow waters such as swamps, small rivers, and flooded forests during the rainy season.

Behavior & Tank Setup

Fire Eels tend to be shy when first introduced to an aquarium but quickly become interactive and recognize their owners, even begging for food once they settle in. They are intelligent fish that enjoy burrowing into soft substrates and hiding among driftwood or plants. While they may occasionally eat smaller fish, they are not aggressive hunters, and most fast-moving tankmates are generally safe.

Since Fire Eels grow quite large, they require a spacious aquarium with plenty of hiding spots. They are also known for escaping through small gaps, so a secure lid is essential. Being nocturnal, they are most active in the evening but will adjust their habits in a well-maintained environment.

Diet & Feeding

In the wild, Fire Eels primarily feed on insects and small invertebrates. In the aquarium, they readily accept live foods like earthworms and can gradually be trained to eat frozen foods such as bloodworms and shrimp. Providing a varied diet ensures they stay healthy and maintain their vibrant coloration.

Why Choose a Fire Eel?

• Unique and beautifully marked appearance
• Intelligent and interactive personality
• Hardy and adaptable to a well-maintained tank
• Compatible with a variety of similarly sized tankmates

Tank & Water Requirements:

• Temperature: 75° - 82°F (24° - 28°C)
• pH Range: 6.5 - 7.5
• KH: 5 - 15 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 125+ gallons for a fully grown adult

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Carnivorous – prefers live foods but can be trained to eat frozen options
• Social Behavior: Generally peaceful but may eat very small fish
• Origin: Southeast Asia, including Java and Sumatra
• Adult Size: Can grow up to 20 inches (51 cm) or more in captivity
• Juvenile Size at Purchase: Typically 4 - 6 inches (10 - 15 cm)

Fire Eels are a fantastic choice for aquarists looking for an intelligent, interactive, and visually stunning fish. With the right care and a well-sized tank, they make a fascinating addition to any large aquarium!