Tire Track Eel - (Mastacembelus armatus)

🐟 Tire Track Eel – (Mastacembelus armatus) – Large and Hardy Spiny Eel for Sale

The Tire Track Eel (Mastacembelus armatus) is a striking and intelligent spiny eel species named for the intricate, interwoven dark markings along its light tan to cream-colored body, resembling a tire tread. Native to rivers, streams, and floodplains across Southeast Asia and India, this species can grow impressively large and is known for its curious, interactive nature with its keeper. The Tire Track Eel is a master escape artist, so aquariums must be securely covered.

🔎 Quick Facts – Tire Track Eel (Mastacembelus armatus)

• 📛 Common Name: Tire Track Eel, Spiny Eel
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Mastacembelus armatus
• 🌍 Origin: Southeast Asia and India – rivers, lakes, and floodplains
• 🎨 Appearance: Light tan to cream body with dark, maze-like tire tread markings; elongated snout
• 📏 Max Size: 24–36 inches (60–90 cm) in captivity (larger in the wild)
• 💎 Availability: Common in the aquarium trade; hardy and adaptable

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🤝 Generally peaceful but may eat small fish that fit in its mouth
• 🌙 Nocturnal; more active during the evening and night
• 🐟 Intelligent and often learns to recognize its owner

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 125+ gallons for an adult
• 🪵 Provide sandy substrate for burrowing and hiding
• 🪨 Use driftwood, caves, and PVC pipes for shelter
• 💡 Dim lighting or floating plants to encourage activity

💧 Water Parameters – Tire Track Eel Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.5–7.5
• 💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

🍽️ Diet – Carnivorous

• 🐟 Live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, earthworms, and shrimp
• 🦐 Chopped prawns, krill, and small fish (non-feeder preferred)
• 🚫 Rarely accepts dry food; prefers meaty options

📋 Tire Track Eel Overview Table

✨ Highlight:
The Tire Track Eel is a large, hardy, and intelligent spiny eel with striking maze-like patterns, making it a fascinating addition to spacious aquariums with secure lids.