Fire Eel
Mastacembelus erythrotaenia
Fire Eel is a peaceful bottom-to-middle swimmer.
Save this fish or add it directly to one of your aquariums.
Quick facts
- Adult size
- ≤ 100 cm (≤ 39.4 in)
- Aquarium size
- 681 L or larger
- Care level
- Intermediate – Advanced
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Swimming zone
- Bottom to middle swimmer
- Temperature
- 24–28 °C
- pH
- 6–8
- GH
- 5–15 dGH
- Diet
- Omnivore
- Lifespan
- up to 15 years
Care requirements
Care level: Intermediate – Advanced.
Lifespan: up to 15 years.
Aquarium size and space needs
Minimum aquarium size: 681 L or larger. Plan the layout and stocking within that limit.
Water parameters
Suitable water: temperature 24–28 °C, pH 6–8, GH 5–15 dGH.
Temperament and compatibility
Fire Eel is peaceful and suits calm community fish.
Swimming zone and behavior
This fish uses the lower to middle part of the aquarium, so leave enough open substrate area for movement and feeding.
Feeding
As an omnivore, Fire Eel should receive a varied diet rather than one repeated food type.
Make sure food reaches the substrate before faster fish take it.
Natural habitat and origin
Origin: Thailand, Cambodia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia.
Before adding this fish
- Plan for an aquarium of 681 L or larger.
- Avoid aggressive or highly competitive fish.
- Offer a varied diet suitable for an omnivorous bottom-dwelling fish.
Similar fish profiles
Use these profiles to compare fish with similar care level, size, temperature range, or swimming behavior.
FAQ
How large does Fire Eel get?
Fire Eel reaches ≤ 100 cm (≤ 39.4 in). It needs specialist housing, long-term space, strong filtration, and carefully chosen companions.
What aquarium size does Fire Eel need?
Use an aquarium of at least 681 L or larger.
Is Fire Eel peaceful?
Yes. Fire Eel is recorded as peaceful and is best planned with calm community fish that do not harass it or dominate the feeding area.
What temperature is suitable for Fire Eel?
Keep it between 24 to 28 °C.