Once more we obtained wonderful Eyespot Spiny Eels. The fish are of adult size and 12-15 cm long. The only complicated thing in this species is the scientific naming. The Eyespot Spiny Eel attains a maximum length of about 20 cm and is one of the most colourful species of all spiny eels.
The Peacock Eel Macrognathus siamensis is a very handsome spiny eel. There can be some variation in its colour and patterning, depending on where it originates from. But basically they are light brown in colour with a thin pale yellow stripe running from the eye to the base of the tail.
You can readily see where the name 'Peacock' Eel comes from. They will generally have between three to six decorative 'eye spots' adorning the upper rear portion of the body along the base of the dorsal fin. Other common names they are known by are Spot-Finned Spiny Eel, Peacock Spiny Eel, Striped Peacock Eel, and Siamese Spiny Eel
Although not considered to be true eels, the body shapes of all members of the spiny eel family, Mastacembelidae, are definitely eel-like. The Peacock Eel has an elongated, but rather thick body and a pointed snout. This is an aquarium eel that doesn't get too big, reaching just under a foot (30 cm) in length. Juveniles can be kept in about a 20 gallon tank, but larger specimens will need a bigger area. Adults will need a tank that is 36 inches in length and about 35 gallons. Make sure you have a tight fitting cover as these guys are escape artists.
What We Like About This Fish:
- Distinctive coloration
- Fully freshwater
- Exceptional oddball fish
- Impressive size
- Compatible with many other large fish
RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS:
- Temperature: 75° - 82° F (24° - 28° C)
- pH: 6.0 - 7.0
- KH: 5 - 12 dKH
- Minimum tank size: 120+ gallons for an adult
CARE GUIDELINES:
- Diet: Omnivorous. Requires a variety of meaty live, frozen, and dry foods., which should be enriched with vegetable matter.
- Social behavior: Peaceful with dissimilar species too large to be considered prey