The Fire Eel (Mastacembelus erythrotaenia) is a species of spiny eel native to Southeast Asia. Here are key details about this fascinating fish:
• Maximum Size: Fire Eels can grow up to 3.3 feet (100 cm) in the wild, though in aquariums, they typically reach 20–24 inches (50–60 cm).
• Native Range: They are found in Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Myanmar, primarily in slow-moving rivers, streams, and floodplains.
• Growth Rate: Fire Eels grow relatively fast when well-fed, reaching around 12 inches (30 cm) in the first year, but their growth slows afterward.
• Lifespan: They can live 10–20 years in captivity with proper care.
• Diet: Fire Eels are carnivorous, feeding on worms, small fish, crustaceans, and insect larvae. In aquariums, they enjoy live or frozen foods like bloodworms, blackworms, earthworms, and shrimp. Some may be trained to eat pellets.
• Breeding: Fire Eels are very difficult to breed in captivity due to their secretive nature and the need for specific environmental triggers. In the wild, they likely breed during the rainy season, when water levels and temperature changes stimulate spawning.
• Best Tank Mates: Fire Eels are semi-aggressive but generally peaceful towards larger, non-aggressive fish. Good tank mates include:
• Large, peaceful fish (e.g., Silver Dollars, Bala Sharks, large Gouramis)
• Bottom-dwellers (e.g., large Loaches, Plecos)
• Cichlids (only non-aggressive or mildly aggressive species)
Avoid small fish like Tetras or Guppies, as they may be eaten. Also, avoid overly aggressive fish that may stress or nip at the Fire Eel.
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