Fire Eel
Mastacembelus erythrotaenia
What you need to keep a Fire Eel
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pH
6.5–7.5
Temperature
24–28 °C
Max size
100 cm
Min tank
700 L
Where to buy
Compare prices from SA aquarium shops listing Fire Eel.
Avg. price
R2 500
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Overview
What to know before you buy.
The Fire Eel is the largest species of spiny eel and one of the most visually spectacular freshwater fish available. Its dark body is adorned with vivid red to orange lateral stripes and spots that "glow" against the black background, becoming more intense with age and good care. Despite its name, it is not a true eel but rather belongs to the Mastacembelidae family. It is a shy, nocturnal predator that spends much of its time buried in soft substrate with only its nose protruding.
Key traits
Care guide
Keeping Fire Eel healthy in a South African setup.
Tank setup
A minimum 700L aquarium suits Fire Eel. Use robust décor and sight breaks so each fish can hold its own space.
Water parameters
Keep pH 6.5–7.5 and 24–28°C. Stable parameters matter more than chasing perfect numbers; acclimate new arrivals slowly.
Feeding
Carnivore. Feed small amounts it clears in a couple of minutes, and vary the diet.
Behaviour
Semi-aggressive. Watch it at feeding time and at lights-out to see its real temperament in your tank.
Tankmates
Choose robust tankmates of similar size, and nothing small enough to be eaten. Add Fire Eel last so territories reset.
Breeding
Fire Eel is rarely bred in captivity; most SA hobbyists buy from shops and breeders.
Community photos
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Market intelligence
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Price history — last 90 days
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