Peacock Eel (Macrognathus siamensis) is a intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 55 gallons and 72-80°F. A slim, eel-like fish with a row of eye-like spots on its back and a flexible pointed snout. It spends the day buried in soft sand and comes out to hunt at dusk. Small shrimp and tiny fish will be eaten.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Macrognathus siamensis |
|---|---|
| Family | Mastacembelidae |
| Origin | Southeast Asia |
| Adult size | 8-12 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 | 10-15 years |
Quick tips
- Use fine sand so it can burrow without scraping its body.
- A tight lid is essential; it escapes through small gaps.
- Offer sinking foods in the evening.
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