Red Fire Eel

Red Fire Eel (Mastacembelus erythrotaenia) is a large, striking Southeast Asian spiny eel, not a true eel, growing up to 30–36+ inches in nature (20-24+ inches in aquariums). They are popular, long-lived (15+ years) aquarium "monster fish," requiring large, 150+ gallon tanks with soft sand for burrowing, 75-82°F water, and a carnivorous, sinking diet. Key Care Details: Tank Requirements: A minimum of 75-100 gallons is required for juveniles, but 150-300+ gallons is necessary for adults to thrive. Substrate & Decor: A soft sand substrate is critical, as they burrow to feel secure. Provide plenty of hiding spots using driftwood, rocks, and PVC pipes. Water Parameters: They are sensitive to water quality, requiring a pH of 6.0–8.0, 75-82°F, and a water hardness between 5-15 dGH. Diet: Carnivorous, feeding on bloodworms, blackworms, earthworms, and frozen meaty foods. Temperament: Generally peaceful, but they will eat small fish. They are best kept with large, peaceful tank mates (e.g., armored plecos, large gouramis, peaceful cichlids). Escape Artist: A tightly fitting lid is mandatory as they are notorious for escaping.