Zebra Spiny Eel (Macrognathus zebrinus) Care Guide

Macrognathus zebrinus is a Burmese spiny eel patterned with thin dark vertical bars, reaching up to about 46 cm.

Overview

Macrognathus zebrinus, the zebra spiny eel, is an elongated freshwater fish of the family Mastacembelidae from Myanmar. Its body bears a series of thin, dark vertical bars with pale outlines, and the caudal fin is marked with small black spots.

Taxonomy

Family: Mastacembelidae
Genus: Macrognathus
Scientific name: Macrognathus zebrinus

Habitat

FishBase records the species from the Irrawaddy, Sittang and Salween rivers in Myanmar, with reports from Indonesia. It is a benthopelagic freshwater fish.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 250 L
Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
pH: 6.5-7.5
GH: 5-15 °dGH
Lifespan: 8-12 years
Substrate: sand (for burrowing)

Diet

The zebra spiny eel is a carnivore. In the aquarium it is fed roughly every two days on meaty and live foods; it can be a robust feeder once acclimatised.

Compatibility

This is a peaceful, crepuscular bottom-dweller. Larger barbs make suitable companions, while tiny nano fish and shrimp should be avoided as they may be eaten.

Conservation status

IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2010).