🐟 Tanganyikan Spiny Eel – (Mastacembelus ellipsifer) – Unique African Freshwater Eel for Sale
The Tanganyikan Spiny Eel (Mastacembelus ellipsifer) is a fascinating and unusual freshwater fish native to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. Recognized for its elongated, snake-like body, distinctive dark spots or blotches along its flanks, and long snout, this eel is a favorite for aquarists seeking something out of the ordinary. Despite its predatory nature toward very small fish, it is generally peaceful with tankmates too large to be considered food, making it a suitable choice for large African cichlid aquariums.
🔎 Quick Facts – Tanganyikan Spiny Eel (Mastacembelus ellipsifer)
😇 Behavior & Temperament
🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements
💧 Water Parameters – Tanganyikan Spiny Eel Care
🍽️ Diet – Carnivorous Eel
📋 Tanganyikan Spiny Eel Overview Table
Feature | Details |
---|---|
🌍 Origin | Lake Tanganyika, East Africa |
📏 Max Size | 16–20 inches |
😇 Temperament | Peaceful with medium/large fish, predatory toward small fish |
🏠 Tank Size | 75+ gallons |
⚗️ pH Range | 7.8–9.0 |
🌡️ Temperature | 75–82°F |
🍽️ Diet | Carnivorous – worms, shrimp, krill, pellets |
🎯 Ideal For | African cichlid tanks, large community aquariums |
✨ Highlight:
The Tanganyikan Spiny Eel is a rare and eye-catching addition to large African aquariums, offering unique eel-like movement, fascinating nocturnal behavior, and compatibility with many Lake Tanganyika cichlids.