Liberian Spiny Eel ( Mastacembelus liberiensis )
The Liberian Spiny Eel is a captivating and distinctive species that can be a fascinating addition to a well-maintained aquarium. Its unique appearance and behaviors make it a standout among freshwater eels.
Max Size:
These eels typically grow to a substantial size, reaching up to 20 inches (50 centimeters) in length.
Behavior:
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A nocturnal and semi-aggressive species.
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They are known to be territorial, especially towards other eels or fish with similar body shapes.
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During the day, they will often burrow into the substrate or hide among decorations, becoming more active as dusk approaches.
Tank Requirements:
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Given their potential size, a minimum tank size of 75 gallons is recommended for adult specimens to provide adequate swimming and hiding space.
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Abundant hiding places are crucial, such as caves, PVC pipes, driftwood, and dense plant cover.
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A tight-fitting and secure lid is absolutely essential, as Liberian Spiny Eels are notorious escape artists and can find their way out of the smallest gaps.
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A soft, sandy substrate is vital to protect their delicate fins and prevent injury as they burrow.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C).
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pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, generally ranging from 6.5 to 7.5.
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Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water is preferred.
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Maintaining excellent water quality through regular water changes and robust filtration is paramount for their health.
Diet:
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Carnivorous, their diet should primarily consist of live or frozen foods.
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They readily accept a variety of meaty foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, chopped earthworms, and small feeder fish (use sparingly due to potential disease risks).
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With patience, they can often be trained to accept high-quality sinking pellets or tablets formulated for carnivorous fish.
Compatibility:
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Best kept with other semi-aggressive or non-aggressive fish of similar size that can hold their own.
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Avoid housing with very small, timid, or fin-nipping fish, as they may become prey or be stressed by the eel's presence.
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It's generally recommended to keep only one Liberian Spiny Eel per tank unless you have a very large aquarium (150+ gallons) with ample hiding spots, as they can be highly territorial towards conspecifics.