Half-Banded Spiny Eel (Mastacembelus circumcinctus) is a intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 55 gallons and 72-80°F. A burrowing, eel-like fish with a banded pattern and a pointed snout. It likes to hide in fine sand or caves and feeds at dusk. It will eat tiny fish and shrimp, and it can escape through very small openings.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Mastacembelus circumcinctus |
|---|---|
| Family | Mastacembelidae |
| Origin | Thailand, Southeast Asia |
| Adult size | 8-10 in |
| Minimum tank | 55 gallons |
| Temperature | 72-80°F |
| pH | 6.5-7.5 |
| Temperament | Peaceful with fish too big to swallow |
| Social behavior | Solitary or small group |
| Swim level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Carnivore: live and frozen worms, shrimp, sinking foods |
| Typical lifespan | 8-10 years |
Quick tips
- Provide fine sand and hiding places.
- Cover every gap in the lid.
- Feed sinking meaty foods after lights dim.
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