Water eels are a unique and fascinating group of elongated fish belonging to the Anguilliformes order. With over 800 species, they display an incredible diversity in size, color, and habitat. In the aquarium trade, some of the most popular varieties kept as pets include the tire track eel, peacock eel, and zig zag eel.
Introducing Water Eels
For aquarists, some recommended species are the tire track eel and peacock eel. Tire track eels have a black and yellow banded pattern. Peacock eels exhibit a beautiful blue and purple coloration with an orange dorsal fin.
General Information
- Origin: Water eels have a worldwide distribution but individual species originate from diverse regions. Peacock eels are from Southeast Asia while tire track eels come from tropical parts of Africa.
- Size: Most aquarium eels grow to 12-24 inches long but some species can reach over 3 feet in length.
- Lifespan: Captive water eels generally live 5-10 years with proper care. Some larger marine species may exceed 20 years.
- Temperament: Water eels range from peaceful to semi-aggressive. Some may be nippy towards tankmates. They are shy and should have hiding spots.
- Appearance: Eels have an elongated, cylindrical body without pelvic or stomach fins. Coloration varies dramatically between species. Skin is smooth and scaleless.
- Popular Varieties: Tire track eel, peacock eel, zig zag eel, fire eel, snowflake eel.
- Price: Aquarium eels average $10-$50 depending on size and species. Rarer breeds cost up to $100+.
Habitat and Tank Requirements
- Natural Habitat: Water eels occupy diverse habitats from freshwater rivers and streams to coral reefs. Most species are bottom-dwellers who hide during the day.
- Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallon tank, although a 55+ gallon tank is ideal for most eels.
- Water Parameters: Varies by species, but most prefer neutral pH around 7.0 and temperature between 70-80°F.
- Tank Setup: Fine gravel or sandy substrate, plenty of rocks and driftwood for hiding, low flow rate. Lid is a must as eels can escape.
Feeding
- Diet: Carnivores that eat live foods including bloodworms, brine shrimp, small fish, krill, prawns, and blackworms. Some accept frozen preparations too.
- Feeding Habits: Primarily nocturnal, scavenging feeders. They detect food through keen sense of smell. Target feed after lights out.
- Suitable Foods: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, krill, silversides, blackworms, prawn, mussel, squid, crab, live guppies.
Breeding
- Reproduction: Very challenging in home aquaria. Most eels migrate to the ocean to spawn. They are lecithotrophic, meaning larvae consume egg yolk.
- Breeding Requirements: Huge tanks mimicking brackish to marine conditions, inducing spawning through hormone injections or environmental cues.
- Spawning Process: Courtship behaviors may involve male and female entwining together. Fertilized eggs are scattered among rocks or coral. No parental care.
Common Health Issues
- Skin Flukes: Susceptible to parasitic skin flukes which look like white grains of salt. Treat with anti-parasitic medications.
- Fungal Infections: Environment changes can trigger fungal infections. Use antifungal remedies.
- Injuries: Long body shape makes them prone to scrapes and bites. Keep tank decor smooth.
- Prevent by quarantining new eels and maintaining excellent water quality.
Special Considerations
- Compatibility: Do not house with very small fish which may be seen as food. Compatible tankmates include larger tetras, loaches, catfish.
- Special Instructions: Secure tank lid, provide plenty of hiding spots, target feed at night. Handle carefully as skin is delicate.
- Legal Restrictions: None generally, but some large species may be restricted in certain areas. Always research local regulations.
Varieties that can be kept together:
- Peacock eel
- Tire track eel
- Zig zag eel
- Fire eel
- Snowflake eel
- Black ghost knifefish
- Clown knifefish
Differences between male and female
- Males are generally smaller, thinner, and more colorful. Females are larger in girth, especially when laden with eggs.
- Male eels develop a broader head as they mature.
- Mature males may exhibit a reddish tint to the fins.
- Gender is difficult to determine visually in many species.
How many species of Water eels?
Over 800 species divided among 15 families. New species continue to be discovered.
How to feed water eels for brighter color?
Provide a varied diet with foods like krill and shrimp. Keep water clean.
How big do water eels grow?
Size varies dramatically but aquarium species typically reach 12-24 inches. Some 3+ feet.
How fast do water eels grow?
Most eels grow relatively quickly, reaching full size within 1-2 years. Growth rate depends on food, tank size, and species.
How long do water eels live?
Captive lifespan is 5-10 years on average. Large marine species 20+ years.
How to care for water eels?
Give them a large tank with sandy substrate and hiding spots. Target feed meaty foods at night. Maintain excellent water quality.
Which food products are the best for Water eels?
Best fish foods: Frozen bloodworms, mysis shrimp, live blackworms, krill, and fresh seafood. Quality pellets or flakes too.
Is good to keep Water eels as Pets?
For advanced aquarists. Need large tank and may eat tankmates. Rewarding display fish.
Why my Water eels die?
Poor water quality, parasites, old age, or improper environment are common causes of death.
Are water eels aggressive?
Some species can be nippy towards small tankmates. Not generally aggressive to larger fish.
Do Water eels kill other fish?
Possible if very small fish introduced. Not malicious but instinctual feeding response.
As a professional aquarist, you might be looking for a website that can help you with your aquaristic needs. You might want to find information about different species of FreshWater Fish, SaltWater Fish, plants, corals, and invertebrates, as well as their care Equipment, compatibility, and behavior. You might also want to learn about the best equipment, products, and techniques for setting up and maintaining your aquariums. You might also want to connect with other aquarists and share your Diseases & Cures experiences, tips, and photos.
If that sounds like you, then you’ve come to the right place. Our Website King Aquarium is dedicated to providing you with everything you need to know about aquaristics & Invertebrates.