Mastacembelus erythrotaenia - Fire Eel
The Fire Eel is one of the most sought-after and striking spiny eels in the aquarium trade. With its dark, velvety body and vibrant red or orange lateral stripes and markings, this eel-like fish brings a mysterious beauty and curious behavior to large freshwater aquariums.
Fire Eels are known for their intelligence and interaction—many recognize their owners and will hand-feed once acclimated. Though peaceful with larger tankmates, they can become territorial, especially in smaller spaces or with other bottom-dwellers.
? Key Features:
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Long, sinuous body with bright red-orange “fire” markings
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Grows up to 20–30 inches in captivity
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Intelligent and interactive – known to recognize caregivers
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Nocturnal but can become active during the day in low-light tanks
?️ Care Guidelines:
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Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons (juveniles); 125–150+ gallons for adults
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Water Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
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pH Range: 6.5–7.5
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Diet: Carnivorous – worms, shrimp, small fish, frozen foods; may accept pellets over time
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Tank Setup: Soft sand substrate, caves, driftwood, low light, secure lid (strong jumpers)
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Behavior: Peaceful with large tankmates; avoid small fish (may be eaten)
⚠️ Important Notes:
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Escape artist – tank must have a tight-fitting lid
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Prefers dimly lit environments and plenty of hiding spots
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May take time to adjust and start eating in a new tank
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Avoid sharp decor – can injure soft underbelly
This listing is for one Fire Eel, size range is around anywhere from 10 inches to 15 inches roughly. Very healthy and currently eating bloodworms (frozen, dry or live will work fine).
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Fire Eel
A little smaller than I was expecting
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Awesome
I’m super impressed with the quality of the fire eel that I received! If you have the tank size, highly recommend!
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Fire Eel
Very nice condition and good packaging.
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Fire Eel
Arrived healthy and eating! Thank you
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fire eel
arrived alive and healthy! happy with my purchase
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Fire Eel
The Fire Eel arrived healthy, and once in the tank has explored its new surroundings, and has taken up home in an ornament. It took a few different Foods to find what it would eat, maybe a few bloodworms, but the Krill is what it really liked. It's about 7 inches in 125 gallon. Our last Fire Eel grew to 27 inches in this tank. After A while we will be able to hand feed this one as well. Thank you Petzone for your fast service, I'm sure I will make more purchases in the future .....
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Fire eel
Very healthy.. arrived the next day.. love it..
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Amazing
My fire eel came happy, healthy, and is doing great in its new home!
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Fire eel
Fish arrived the next day safe and healthy after a trip clear across the country to Pennsylvania in the middle of winter. Will definitely buy from from pet zone again.
