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 3 inches to 9 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.
