Eel: Spotfin Spiney

The Spotfin Spiney Eel is a freshwater eel with an elongated and compressed body. They have a long, slender snout and an anterior nostril. A defining characteristic is the presence of 3-6 large ocelli, or "eye spots", along the lower parts of their dorsal and caudal fins. They are typically light brown with a pale yellow stripe from eye to tail base.

Size and Lifespan

Spotfin Spiney Eels grow to an average length of around 12 inches in the aquarium. With the proper care, their lifespan can be between 4-5 ears!

Tank Size and Requirements

We recommend a tank that is 30 gallons for a singular full grown specimen. Larger tanks if you are planning to house multiple eels. Spotfin Spiney Eels are relatively peaceful overall and can be in community tanks, however they should not be housed with small fish that could potentially become snacks!

Diet

The Spotfin Spiney is a carnivore that primarily eats live foods like earthworms, black worms and bloodworms. They can be fed frozen bloodworms and krill.