Zebra Spiney Eel

Mastacembelus zebrinus, widely known as the Zebra Spiny Eel (scientifically reclassified as Macrognathus zebrinus), is a freshwater fish endemic to Myanmar's major river basins, including the Irrawaddy and Salween. It reaches lengths of up to 14 to 24 inches and is distinguished by a robust brown body overlaid with pale, vertical zebra-like stripes.

Distribution & Habitat

• In the wild, the Zebra Spiny Eel inhabits sluggish, heavily vegetated sections of tropical rivers and swamps.
• Naturally found in Myanmar and Thailand, it has also become an established alien species in some Singaporean reservoirs.
• It is primarily a nocturnal bottom-dweller, often remaining buried in soft sand or hidden among plant thickets and bogwood during the day.

Care in the Aquarium

Keeping the Zebra Spiny Eel requires specialized care due to its size, predatory nature, and secretive habits. Below are key considerations for its care:

Tank Size

• Requires a minimum tank capacity of 75 to 100 gallons, emphasizing the floor footprint over tank height.

Substrate & Decor

• A soft sand substrate is mandatory to allow them to burrow without damaging their delicate snouts or undersides.

Water Parameters

• Prefers tropical temperatures of 73°F to 82°F (23°C to 28°C).
• A pH range of 6.5 to 7.5 and a GH of 5 to 18 dGH is ideal.

Diet

• As a strict carnivore, it favors live or frozen foods like earthworms, bloodworms, and mysis shrimp.
• Dried foods are rarely accepted.

Tank Mates

• Best housed with robust tank mates that are too large to be swallowed.
• They can be territorial and aggressive towards other spiny eels, so housing them singly is typically recommended unless the tank is exceptionally large.

Safety

• Because they are exceptional escape artists, a tightly sealed aquarium lid is strictly required.