Fire Eel (Mastacembelus erythrotaenia) is an advanced-level freshwater fish that needs at least 180 gallons and 75-82°F. A long, dramatic spiny eel sold small that grows to well over two feet. It buries in sand, escapes through the smallest gap, and needs a very large, long tank, so it is a fish to plan for rather than an impulse buy.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Mastacembelus erythrotaenia |
|---|---|
| Family | Mastacembelidae |
| Origin | Southeast Asia |
| Adult size | 30-40 in |
| Minimum tank | 180 gallons |
| Temperature | 75-82°F |
| pH | 6.5-7.5 |
| Temperament | Peaceful with large fish, eats anything it can swallow |
| Social behavior | Solitary |
| Swim level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Diet | Carnivore: earthworms, frozen foods, shrimp, fish pieces |
| Typical lifespan | 10-15 years |
Quick tips
- Use fine sand and cover every gap in the lid.
- Do not keep with small fish or shrimp; it may eat them.
- Use medications and salt carefully; eels are sensitive.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi