Spotted Spiny Eel, Peacock Eel 8cm

Spotted Spiny Eel (Macrognathus siamensis)

Bring a touch of intrigue to your aquarium with the captivating Spotted Spiny Eel! Native to Southeast Asia, this nocturnal fish enchants with its eel-like body and peacock-like eye spots. For example, its hardy nature and unique appearance make it ideal for community tanks with larger fish. Consequently, both beginner and experienced aquarists value its distinctive charm. Order now to add this elegant fish to your tank!

Caring for Spotted Spiny Eels

To ensure these eels thrive, provide a tank of at least 80 litres for juveniles or 140 litres for adults, with a soft, sandy substrate for burrowing. For instance, maintain water temperatures between 22°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6.5–7.5, mimicking their natural river habitat. Moreover, a tight-fitting lid is essential, as they are escape artists. However, regular 20–30% weekly water changes and gentle filtration maintain pristine water quality.

Ideal Tank Mates

Spotted Spiny Eels are peaceful and flourish in community tanks with larger, non-aggressive fish. For example, they coexist well with species like larger tetras, barbs, gouramis, or peaceful cichlids of similar size. Moreover, they get along with others of their kind if sized similarly. However, avoid small fish or shrimp, as their carnivorous nature may lead to predation, ensuring a harmonious tank environment.

Feeding and Nutrition

As carnivores, these eels require a protein-rich diet to support their health and vibrant markings. For instance, offer live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and tubifex, which they seek at night. Moreover, some accept high-quality sinking pellets or freeze-dried foods. Consequently, feed them after lights-off in small portions to accommodate their nocturnal habits and preserve water quality.

Breeding Spotted Spiny Eels

Breeding these eels in captivity is extremely challenging and rarely documented. For example, a large tank with soft substrate, low lighting, and optimal water parameters may encourage spawning, but success is uncommon. Moreover, their egg-laying habits are poorly understood in aquariums. However, providing excellent water conditions and a varied diet supports their overall vitality, even if breeding is unlikely.

Species Overview

The Spotted Spiny Eel is a hardy and elegant bottom-dweller, perfect for community aquariums with larger fish. Moreover, its peacock-like eye spots, eel-like body, and nocturnal behaviour make it a fascinating choice for dedicated aquarists.

• Species: Macrognathus siamensis
• Common Name: Spotted Spiny Eel, Peacock Eel, Striped Peacock Eel, Siamese Spiny Eel
• Origin: Southeast Asia
• Diet: Carnivore
• PH Range: 6.5–7.5
• Temperature: 22°C–28°C
• Max Size: Approximately 20 cm
• Tank Size: Minimum 80 litres (juveniles), 140 litres (adults)

FAQs

What tank size is ideal for Spotted Spiny Eel?
A minimum of 80 litres for juveniles or 140 litres for adults, with soft substrate and a secure lid.

Can they live with other fish?
Yes, they thrive with larger, non-aggressive fish like tetras and gouramis in community tanks.

What do Spotted Spiny Eel eat?
They enjoy live or frozen foods like bloodworms, fed at night to suit their nocturnal habits.

Are they easy to care for?
Yes, their hardy nature suits beginners with stable water conditions and proper tank setup.

What water conditions do they need?
They prefer neutral water with temperatures between 22°C and 28°C and gentle filtration.

Order your Spotted Spiny Eel today and add an elegant, nocturnal marvel to your aquarium! Live fish and aquarium products shipped Australia-wide.