Our Guide To Keeping Fire Eel Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Mastacembelus erythrotaenia
   • Common name: Fire Eel
   • Family: Mastacembelidae
   • Origin: Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia
   • Adult length: Up to 90 cm
   • Lifespan: 10 to 15 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Fire Eels require a large tank due to their size, with a minimum recommended size of 300 litres.
   • Provide plenty of hiding spots with driftwood, rocks, and caves as they are nocturnal and secretive creatures.
   • Ensure the tank has a tight-fitting lid as Fire Eels are known to be excellent escape artists.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Fire Eels prefer soft to moderately hard water with a pH range between 6.5 to 7.5.
   • Maintain the water temperature between 24 to 28°C (75 to 82°F).

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • A strong filtration system is necessary to maintain water quality as Fire Eels are messy eaters.
   • Ensure there is minimal water flow to mimic their natural slow-moving habitats.

5. Diet:

   • Fire Eels are carnivores and prefer live foods such as bloodworms, earthworms, and blackworms.
   • They may also accept high-quality sinking pellets or frozen foods like brine shrimp and chopped seafood.

6. Tank mates:

   • Fire Eels are best kept in a species-only tank due to their secretive nature and potential aggression towards tank mates.
   • However, if kept with other fish, choose peaceful species that are too large to be considered prey.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Fire Eels are nocturnal and prefer to hide during the day, becoming more active at night.
   • They may become territorial, especially towards members of their own species or similar-looking fish.