Tanganyikan Spiny Eel - Mastacembelus ellipsifer : Complete Eels Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Tanganyikan Spiny Eel (Mastacembelus ellipsifer) is a distinctive and intriguing species native to the freshwater environments of Lake Tanganyika in Africa. This species is renowned for its slender, elongated body and striking appearance. These Eels are an exceptional addition to suitable aquarium setups, offering aquarists a glimpse into the fascinating underwater world of Lake Tanganyika.
Tanganyikan Spiny Eels exhibit a relatively peaceful temperament, though adult specimens may prey on small fish overnight. Thus, selecting compatible tank mates is crucial. These eels can coexist with larger, peaceful fish that are not at risk of being eaten. While they are generally not aggressive towards other species, they can show territorial behaviour towards conspecifics. Housing a single individual per tank is ideal, but a very spacious tank with ample visual barriers can support multiple eels.
As a rare addition to hardwater Tanganyikan fish communities without small fish, these eels thrive in environments with a soft sand substrate, allowing them to burrow, and numerous hiding places provided by plants, driftwood, smooth rock caves, and PVC pipes. Securely anchor the decor to prevent larger eels from destabilizing it.
The tank's length and width are more important than its height, and it should be securely covered to prevent escapes, as these eels are adept at finding exit points. Diffuse lighting, supplemented with floating plants and a blue moon light for evening observation, replicates their preference for dim conditions. Maintaining clean, well-filtered, and gently moving water is vital. Although Tanganyikan Spiny Eels are mostly buried during the day, they become active at night.
Tanganyikan Spiny Eels are characterized by a brownish-beige hue accented with dark brown, ring-shaped patterns. Their morphology is typical of spiny eels, featuring a long snout and rigid dorsal fins. An adaptation to their benthic lifestyle, these eels lack a swim bladder, a trait that underscores their specialization for life on the substrate.
Tanganyikan Spiny Eel Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Visually distinguishing between male and female Tanganyikan Spiny Eels is challenging, as there are no clear external differences. However, it is suggested by some observers that females may exhibit a noticeably wider body when in breeding conditions.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Mastacembelus ellipsifer |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1899 |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Synbranchiformes |
| Family | Mastacembelidae |
| Genus | Mastacembelus |
| Origins | Tanzania , Democratic Republic of the Congo , Burundi , Zambia |
| Max Size | 45 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Intermediate - Advanced |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Loners |
| Diet & Feeding | Carnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 15 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 8.0 - 9.5 |
| GH | 15 - 25 |
| ℉ | 73 - 81 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 23 - 27 |
Natural Habitat
The Tanganyikan Spiny Eel, a species native to Lake Tanganyika in Africa, inhabits areas along the lake's shores and intermediate zones. This species shows a preference for coastal waters characterized by sandy, rocky, or muddy substrates. Occupying a benthopelagic niche, the Tanganyikan Spiny Eel is adapted to freshwater environments where it resides near the lakebed, blending into its surroundings for both feeding and protection.
Breeding
Breeding the Tanganyikan Spiny Eel in captivity is a challenging endeavour and rarely achieved successfully by aquarists. This species' specific breeding behaviours and requirements in the wild are not well-documented, which adds to the difficulty in replicating the necessary conditions in a home aquarium.
Diet & Feeding
The Tanganyikan Spiny Eel is a species with carnivorous feeding habits that require a diet rich in meaty foods to thrive in captivity. In their natural habitat, they primarily consume invertebrates and small fish.
To replicate this diet in an aquarium setting, it is essential to provide a variety of high-protein foods. Suitable options include live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, tubifex worms, and small pieces of fish or shrimp. It's important to note that Mastacembelus ellipsifer may be nocturnal or shy feeders, so food should be offered when they are most active, typically during the evening or night.
Regular feeding with appropriate portion sizes is crucial for their health, ensuring they receive the necessary nutrients while maintaining water quality. By catering to their carnivorous nature with a diet that mirrors their natural feeding habits, aquarists can ensure the well-being and longevity of Mastacembelus ellipsifer in a captive environment.
Other Oddballs
18 More Oddballs Profiles
View All