Tire Track Eel (Mastacembelus favus) is an advanced-level freshwater fish that needs at least 150 gallons and 72-82°F. A striking spiny eel with a tire-tread pattern that is sold small but can reach well over two feet. It hides during the day, eats any fish small enough to swallow, and needs a long, escape-proof tank with sand and plenty of caves.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Mastacembelus favus |
|---|---|
| Family | Mastacembelidae |
| Origin | Southeast Asia (Mekong, Chao Phraya and nearby basins) |
| Adult size | 20-30 in |
| Minimum tank | 150 gallons |
| Temperature | 72-82°F |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Temperament | Predatory toward small fish; can be territorial |
| Social behavior | Solitary |
| Swim level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Diet | Carnivore: frozen and live foods, earthworms, chopped fish and shrimp, sinking pellets |
| Typical lifespan | 10-15 years |
Quick tips
- Plan for a long tank of 150 gallons or more for an adult.
- Cover every gap; spiny eels escape through tiny openings.
- Use fine sand, not sharp gravel.
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