Fire Eel Care: Tank Size, Food and Tank Mates

Meet the fire eel

The fire eel (Mastacembelus erythrogenys) is a freshwater spiny eel from Southeast Asia, named for the red to orange stripes and spots along its dark body. It is not a true eel. In aquariums it commonly reaches about 20 to 30 inches and can grow larger, so it is a long term commitment.

Tank setup

• Tank size: juveniles can start smaller, but plan for 125 gallons or more for an adult, with a long footprint.
• Soft sand: fire eels burrow. Sharp gravel can scratch their skin and lead to infections.
• Tight lid: spiny eels are escape artists. Cover every gap, including around filter tubes.
• Hiding spots: PVC pipes, driftwood and smooth caves.

Water and food

Keep the temperature around 75 to 82 F with a pH of roughly 6.5 to 7.5 and very clean water. Fire eels are carnivores: offer frozen bloodworms, mysis, chopped earthworms, krill and other meaty foods, and train them onto sinking carnivore pellets. They are shy at first and usually feed best near dusk.

Tank mates

Fire eels are usually peaceful toward fish too large to swallow but will eat small fish. Good mates include medium to large peaceful fish such as larger barbs, gouramis and calmer cichlids. Avoid other spiny eels unless the tank is very large, since they can fight.

Frequently asked questions

What you will need

• Fine aquarium sandSafe for burrowing.
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• Tight fitting glass lidSpiny eels escape through tiny gaps.
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• Frozen bloodwormsA favorite food.
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