The fire eel is colorful and has red markings. It has scientific name of Mastacembelus erythrotaenia. They are indigenous to fresh water in India, Malaysia, Borneo, Sri Lanka, Sumatra, Thailand and Burma. Below are more interesting facts about fire eel.

 

Fire Eel Facts

 

Description: Fire eel has an elongated body as long as 1 meter (40 inches) with a pointed snout. In captivity it only grows up until 50cm (20inches). It should always be fed live food but must have the space for this.

 

This aquarium fish has a dark brown pigmentation, but a light brown to grey belly. The red stripes on its body, fades with age. The youth typically have yellow markings which become red as they grow. The intensity of the color depends on the health of the eel.

 

Behavior: The fire eel is shy and only comes out at night, but can become fond of its owner and eat from his hand. It is peaceful and should be kept with medium sized fish.

 

Breeding: It is a plant spawning fish and breed at 50 centimeters in captivity. Fry should eat healthy food.

 

Habitat: Eel live at the bottom of the water and prefers soft water. It prefers water with pH of 7, dH of 10 and temperature of 24-27°C.

 

Fire Eel as Aquarium Pet

 

The tank should be large enough, or its colors will fade. The artificial fish tank should have gravel without sharp edges. They bury their bodies in the sand with only their heads protruding.  Use dense aquarium plants with some floating plants, with rocks, roots and wood to create sheltered areas and cover the tank to prevent it jumping out.

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