Fire Eel Natural Guide101: Look, Breeding, Size & All | 2024

The Fire Eel may be the perfect species if you are looking for a large and dramatic freshwater fish. These striking eels can grow over three feet long, and their vibrant red and orange coloration is truly eye-catching. 

The Fire Eel is not a true eel but a member of the family Mastacembelidae, which contains many species of spiny eels. These fish are native to Africa and Asia and can be found in various habitats, from ponds and streams to large rivers.

Fire Eels make great pets for experienced aquarium owners, but they can be difficult to care for due to their size and specific habitat requirements.

This care guide will cover everything you need to know about keeping Fire Eels in your home aquarium.

So without further ado, let's get started!

Fire Eel: Species Summary

Scientific name:	Mastacembelus erythrotaenia
Common names:	Fire Eel, red-tailed Eel, African spiny Eel
Family:	Mastacembelidae
Color:	Brown with red or orange
Origin:	Southeast Asia
Adult size:	Up to 39 inches
Life span:	Up To 10 years
Habitat:	Freshwater rivers, streams, and ponds
Behavior:	They are nocturnal fish and spend the day hiding in caves or logs
Minimum tank size:	150 gallons
Temperature Range:	75°-82°F (24-28°C)
pH range:	6.0 to 7.5
Water type:	Soft to moderate
Water hardness:	6-12 dGH
Diet:	Omnivore loves live food
Feeding frequency:	2-3 times per week
Breeding:	Fire Eels are difficult to breed in captivity

The natural habitat of the Fire Eel is in slow-moving rivers and streams in Southeast Asia. In the wild, these eels prefer to live in areas with plenty of hiding places and a soft, sandy bottom. They are a nocturnal species and will spend the day hiding in caves or logs.

The scientific name for the Fire Eel is Mastacembelus erythrotaenia. Mastacembelus comes from the Greek word mastos, which means breast, and cembale, which means Eel. The name erythrotaenia comes from the Greek words erythros, meaning red, and taenia, meaning band or stripe.

They belong to the Spiny Eel family, which contains many species of freshwater eels from Africa and Asia. The Fire Eel is the only member of this family commonly kept as a pet.

Fire Eels are considered a threatened species in the wild due to habitat loss and degradation. They are sometimes collected for the aquarium trade, but this practice is not sustainable and contributes to the decline of wild populations.

When purchasing a Fire Eel, it is important only to buy captive-bred fish. These fish are hardier and less stressed than wild-caught eels and will better adjust to life in an aquarium. Captive-bred Fire Eels are also more likely to accept prepared foods, which is important for long-term health.

Fire Eels are more likely to thrive in an aquarium when they are captive-bred, so make sure to ask your retailer about the source of their fish. 

The cost of a captive-bred Fire Eel can vary depending on the size and color of the fish. Smaller eels less than a foot in length usually cost between $20 and $30, while larger eels can cost upwards of $100. But no matter how much you spend on your Fire Eel, it will be a rewarding pet that will bring you years of enjoyment.

Fire Eel Appearance

Covered with scales, the Fire Eel has a long, slender body tapered at the tail. The head is blunt with small eyes, and the mouth is filled with sharp teeth. 

The coloring of Fire Eels can vary depending on the species. The red-tailed Fire Eel is the most common Fire Eel, which gets its name from its bright red tail. These eels have dark brown or black bodies with vertical stripes that are lighter in color. The belly is usually white or cream-colored.

Other types of Fire Eels can be green, blue, or even orange. However, the red-tailed Fire Eel is the most commonly kept as a pet.

The most distinguishing feature of the Fire Eel is its long, bright red tail. This colorful tail is used to attract mates in the wild and can also be used to startle predators.

The dorsal fin of the Fire Eel is divided into two parts, with the front part being shorter than the back. The anal fin is divided into two parts, and the dorsal and anal fins are connected to the tail fin.

Fire Eel Size & Growth Rate

The size of a full-grown Fire Eel can vary depending on the species and the individual fish. In the wild, these eels can reach up to 39 inches. However, captive-bred Fire Eels are typically smaller, with most fish only reaching lengths of 12 to 16 inches.

The growth rate of Fire Eels is relatively fast, and they can reach their full size within two to three years. However, their life span in captivity is much shorter than in the wild, with most eels only living for five to seven years.

Fire Eel Lifespan

The lifespan of a Fire Eel in the wild can be up to 10 years. However, these eels typically only live for five to seven years in captivity. The main reason for this difference is that captive eels often lack the proper diet and care to thrive.

Fire Eel Behavior & Temperament

Fire Eels are nocturnal creatures and prefer to hunt at night. During the day, they will hide in caves or other hiding places.

They are not aggressive fish, but they can be territorial. They may become aggressive if they feel threatened.

They are not suitable for community tanks. They should be kept with other eels or fish that are similar in size.

The feeding behavior of Fire Eels is peculiar: they will often lie in wait for their prey, camouflaged against the substrate. When an unsuspecting victim swims by, the Fire Eel will lunge and grab it with its mouth.

Fire Eels are not suitable for beginner aquarists. They require a lot of care and attention. Experienced aquarists should only keep them.

Fire Eel Breeding

Fire Eels are difficult to breed in captivity. The first step is to set up a breeding tank that is at least 150 gallons in size. The tank should have a gentle filtration system and live plants.

The next step is to choose a pair of healthy Fire Eels. The female Eel will be larger than the male Eel.

The next step is to condition the eels for breeding. This can be done by feeding them a diet of live foods.

Once the eels are conditioned, the female will lay a clutch of eggs. The male will then fertilize the eggs. The eggs will hatch in 7-10 days. The fry will be tiny and need to be fed live foods.

As they grow, you can introduce them to frozen or freeze-dried foods. Fire Eels typically reach maturity at 1-2 years of age. After the fry has matured, it can be moved to its tank or sold.

Fire Eel Male and Female Characteristics

It is possible to discern between female and male Fire Eels based on their appearance. Females are typically larger than males and have a rounder body shape. In addition, the female's vent, located behind the anal fin, is larger than the male's.

Fire Eel Care

The best care for Fire Eels is to provide them with a large aquarium with plenty of hiding places. These eels are shy and reclusive, so they need plenty of hiding places. 

In addition to a large tank, Fire Eels also need clean water. Be sure to perform regular water changes and clean the filter regularly.

The diet of a Fire Eel should consist of live foods. These eels are opportunistic feeders in the wild and will eat whatever they can find. In captivity, however, providing them with a protein-rich diet is best.

They are semi-nocturnal, so they are most active at night. During the day, they often hide in the gravel or among the plants.

Here we will discuss everything you need to know about caring for a Fire Eel, including its tank size, water conditions, diet, and more.

Fire Eel Tank Size

Fire Eels are long and slender, so they need a tank of at least 150 gallons in size. You will need an even larger tank if you have more than one Fire Eel. These fish are also very active and need plenty of swimming space.

When setting up your tank, include plenty of hiding places. Fire Eels are shy fish and will often hide during the day. Driftwood, rocks, and caves are all good options for providing hiding places.

Fire Eel Water Parameters

Fire Eels are native to tropical rivers and streams and need warm water to thrive. The ideal temperature range for these fish is 75° to 82°Fahrenheit.

The pH range for Fire Eels is 6.0 to 7.5. The water hardness should be in the range of 6 to 12 dGH. The specific gravity of the water should be between 1.020 to 1.025.

They are also susceptible to changes in water conditions, so it is essential to perform regular water changes and closely monitor the water parameters.

Using a water conditioner when setting up your tank is also a good idea. This will help remove harmful chemicals from the water and make it safe for your fish.

Fire Eel Filtration

Fire Eels are very sensitive to water conditions, so a sound filtration system is essential. Be sure to choose a filter rated for your tank size with plenty of flow.

Choosing a filter with mechanical and chemical components is a good idea. The mechanical component will remove any physical debris from the water, while the chemical composition will remove any harmful chemicals.

A good filter will also help keep the water parameters stable, essential for Fire Eels.

Some recommended filters for Fire Eels are:

• The Fluval FX6: This filter is rated for tanks up to 400 gallons and has a flow rate of 1150 GPH. This filter is also very quiet and has a self-priming feature.
• The Aqua Clear: This filter is rated for tanks up to 100 gallons and has a flow rate of 700 GPH. This filter is easy to install and comes with various media options.
• The Eheim Classic: This filter is rated for tanks up to 60 gallons and has a flow rate of 500 GPH. This filter is very quiet and comes with various media options.

Heating

They are tropical fish and need warm water to thrive. The ideal temperature range for these fish is 75° to 82°Fahrenheit.

If your home is not naturally warm, use an aquarium heater to maintain the correct water temperature. Be sure to choose a heater that is rated for your tank size.

It is also a good idea to get a temperature controller. This will help stabilize the water temperature and prevent the heater from overworking.

Some recommended aquarium heaters for Fire Eels are:

• The Eheim Jager: This heater is rated for tanks up to 60 gallons and has a temperature range of 68-93 degrees Fahrenheit. This heater is very reliable and has an automatic shut-off feature.
• The Fluval E Series: This heater is rated for tanks up to 100 gallons and has a temperature range of 68-93 degrees Fahrenheit. This heater is very reliable and has a digital display.
• The Aqua Euro USA Max: This heater is rated for tanks up to 200 gallons and has a temperature range of 68-93 degrees Fahrenheit. This heater is very reliable and has an automatic shut-off feature.

Plants

Fire Eels are not particularly picky regarding plants but prefer live plants. Live plants will help oxygenate the water and provide hiding places for your fish.

Some recommended plants for Fire Eels are:

• The Java Fern: This plant is easy to care for and can tolerate many water conditions. The Java fern is also a good choice for beginners.
• The Anubias: This plant is easy to care for and can tolerate many water conditions. The Anubias is also a good choice for beginner aquarists.
• The Hornwort: This plant is easy to care for and can tolerate various water conditions. The Hornwort is also a good choice for beginner aquarists.

Lighting

They do not require special lighting, but they do prefer dimmer lighting. If you are keeping live plants in your tank, be sure to choose a light that is appropriate for plant growth.

Some recommended lights for Fire Eels are:

• The Marineland Double Bright LED Light is perfect for beginner aquarists. It is effortless to install and has a wide range of settings.
• The Fluval Sea CP1 LED Light is perfect for planted tanks. It has a built-in timer and a variety of different light settings.
• The Aqua Culture LED Aquarium Light is perfect for beginner aquarists. It is straightforward to install and has a wide range of settings.

Fertilizers

If you keep live plants in your tank, you must use fertilizer to ensure they have all the nutrients they need to grow. Many different fertilizers are available on the market, so be sure to choose one that is appropriate for the plants you are keeping.

Some recommended fertilizers for Fire Eels are:

• The Seachem Flourish
• The Fluval Plant and Shrimp Stratum
• The API Leaf Zone

CO2 Systems

If you are keeping live plants in your tank, you must use a CO2 system to ensure they have all the carbon dioxide they need to grow. There are many different CO2 systems available on the market, so be sure to choose one that is appropriate for the plants you are keeping.

Some recommended CO2 systems for Fire Eels are:

• The Fluval CO2 Advanced Kit: This CO2 system is perfect for live plants. It is straightforward to use and provides a steady supply of carbon dioxide.
• The Aqua Clear CO2 Power Filter: This CO2 system is perfect for live plants. It is straightforward to use and provides a steady supply of carbon dioxide.
• The Aqua Plenish CO2 System: This CO2 system is perfect for live plants. It is straightforward to use and provides a steady supply of carbon dioxide.

Water Conditioners

It is essential to use a water conditioner when setting up your tank. Water conditioners will remove harmful chemicals from tap water and make it safe for your fish.

Some recommended water conditioners for Fire Eels are:

• The API Tap Water Conditioner
• The Seachem Prime
• The Fluval Aqua Plus

Substrate

It is essential to choose a substrate that is safe for your fish. Some substrates can release harmful chemicals into the water, so be sure to choose one that is safe for use in an aquarium.

Some recommended substrates for Fire Eels are:

• The Fluval Aquarium Soil
• The Aqua Culture Gravel
• The API Eco-Complete Planted Aquarium Substrate

Decorations

It is essential to choose decorations that are safe for your fish. Some decorations can release harmful chemicals into the water, so be sure to choose ones that are safe for use in an aquarium.

Some recommended decorations for Fire Eels are:

• The Fluval Sea Driftwood
• The Aqua Culture Rock Cave
• The API Reef Rock

Other Tank Accessories

You may want to consider adding a few other things to your tank.

These include:

• Aquarium Thermometers
• pH Meter
• Air Pump

With all these different products, knowing which ones are right for your tank can be difficult. Be sure to research and ask many questions before making any decisions. This will help you create the perfect environment for your Fire Eel.

Water Changes

It is essential to do regular water changes to keep your tank clean and the water quality high. Water changes also help remove any harmful chemicals that may have built up in the water.

Be sure to do a water change at least once a week. You may need to do two or more weekly water changes if you have a larger tank.

To change the water, you will need the following:

• A siphon: A siphon is necessary to remove water from your tank.
• Water conditioner: Be sure to use a water conditioner to remove harmful chemicals from your tap water.
• A clean bucket: You will need a clean bucket to hold the new water.

To change the water, follow these steps:

• Use the siphon to remove 10-15% of the water from your tank.
• Fill the clean bucket with tap water and add the water conditioner.
• Stir the water until the water conditioner has dissolved completely.
• Pour the new water into your tank.
• Repeat these steps once a week.

Cleaning The Tank

It is essential to keep your tank clean to maintain water quality and prevent the spread of disease.

To clean the tank, you will need the following:

• A gravel vacuum: A gravel vacuum is necessary to remove any debris from the gravel.
• An algae scraper: An algae scraper is necessary to remove algae from the glass.
• A toothbrush: A toothbrush is necessary to clean any hard-to-reach areas.

To clean the tank, follow these steps:

• Remove the fish from the tank and place them in a temporary home.
• Turn off all of the equipment in the tank.
• Remove the decorations and gravel from the tank.
• Clean the glass, filter, and decorations with a soft cloth and algae scraper.
• Rinse the gravel with clean water.
• Replace the gravel and decorations in the tank.
• Fill the tank with fresh water and add the water conditioner.
• Stir the water until the water conditioner has dissolved completely.
• Add the fish back into the tank.
• Turn on all of the equipment in the tank.

Cleaning The Filter

It is essential to clean your filter regularly to maintain water quality and prevent disease spreading.

To clean the filter, you will need the following:

• A sponge: A sponge is necessary to remove debris from the filter.
• Filter media: Be sure to use the correct filter media.

To clean the filter, follow these steps:

• Remove the filter from the tank.
• Rinse the sponge in clean water.
• Wipe down the inside of the filter with the sponge.
• Replace the filter media according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Rinse the filter media in clean water.
• Replace the filter in the tank.

Testing The Water

It is essential to test the water regularly to maintain water quality and prevent the spread of disease.

To test the water, you will need the following:

• A test kit: A test kit is necessary to test the water parameters. Be sure to choose a test kit specific to the type of water in your tank.

To test the water, follow these steps:

• Fill a clean cup with tank water.
• Test the water according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Record the results of the tests.
• Repeat these steps once a week.

Fire Eel Common Possible Diseases

It would be best if you always looked for any signs of disease in your fish.

Some common diseases that affect Fire Eels include:

• Ich: Ich is a parasite that causes white spots on the fish. If you notice any signs of ich, you should immediately isolate the affected fish and treat them with medication specifically for ich.
• Hole-in-the-head disease: Hole-in-the-head disease is caused by a parasite that attacks the fish's head. If you notice any signs of hole-in-the-head disease, you should immediately isolate the affected fish and treat them with medication specifically for hole-in-the-head disease.
• Gill flukes: Gill flukes are parasites attached to the fish's gills. If you notice any signs of gill flukes, you should immediately isolate the affected fish and treat them with medication specifically for them.

Signs That Your Fire Eel Is Sick

You can look for several signs indicating your Fire Eel is sick.

These signs include:

• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Rapid breathing
• Strange swimming behavior
• Clamped fins
• White spots on the body
• Sores on the body
• Holes in the head
• Excess mucus on the body

If you notice these signs, immediately isolate the affected fish and contact a veterinarian.

Fire Eel Preventing Diseases

There are several things that you can do to help prevent disease in your fish:

• Quarantine new fish: When you add new fish to your tank, it is essential to quarantine them for at least two weeks. This will help ensure they are not carrying any diseases that could infect the other fish in your tank.
• Clean your tanks and equipment regularly: It is essential to clean your tanks and equipment regularly. This will help prevent the build-up of harmful bacteria that could cause disease.
• Test your water regularly: It is essential to test your water regularly. This will help you identify any water quality problems that could lead to disease.
• Plant live plants in your tank: Live plants will help aerate the water and keep the water quality high.
• Feed your fish a healthy diet: A healthy diet will help keep your fish solid and disease-resistant.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent disease in your Fire Eel tank.

Fire Eel Treatment And Medications Of Diseases

If your Fire Eel does become sick, there are several things that you can do to treat the disease.

The first step is to isolate the affected fish. This will help prevent the disease from spreading to the other fish in your tank.

Next, you will need to identify the specific disease that your fish has. Once you have identified the disease, you can treat it with the appropriate medication.

Few medications can be used to treat diseases in fish.

Some of these medications include:

• Anti-bacterial medication: This type of medication is used to treat bacterial infections.
• Anti-viral medication: This type of medication is used to treat viral infections.
• Anti-fungal medication: This type of medication is used to treat fungal infections.

It is essential to follow the instructions on the medication carefully. Overdosing your fish with medication can cause more harm than good.

If you are unsure how to treat a specific disease, contact a veterinarian.

How To Choose A Healthy Fire Eel

When you are choosing a Fire Eel, there are several things that you should look for:

• The Eel should be a healthy weight.
• The Eel should have clear eyes.
• The Eel should have no visible parasites.
• The Eel should have no wounds or sores.

If you find an eel that meets all of these criteria, you can be sure you are choosing a healthy fish.

Fire Eel Food & Diet

In their natural habitat in Southeast Asian rivers, Fire Eels eat small fish, crustaceans, and insects. In a home aquarium, they will accept a variety of live, frozen, and freeze-dried foods.

You can feed Fire Eels live food, such as:

• Bloodworms
• Brine shrimp
• Daphnia
• Ghost shrimp
• Live black worms
• Live earthworms

You can also feed them frozen food, such as:

• Brine shrimp
• Bloodworms
• Mysis shrimp
• Krill

Although Fire Eels are omnivores, they often go after meaty foods than plant matter. To provide a balanced diet, offer them a mix of live, frozen, and freeze-dried foods.

For snacks, you can give them the following:

• Crickets
• Mealworms
• Wax worms

Feeding your Fire Eel various foods is important to ensure they get all the nutrients they need.

Fire Eel Diet Foods To Avoid

There are some foods that you should avoid feeding your Fire Eel.

These include:

• Processed meats
• Junk food
• Foods high in fat
• Foods high in sugar

By avoiding these foods, you can help to keep your Fire Eel healthy and disease-free.

The Importance Of A Healthy Diet

A healthy diet is important for all animals, including Fire Eels. A healthy diet will help keep your Fire Eel solid and disease-resistant. It helps ensure your Fire Eel gets all the nutrients needed to stay healthy.

A diet high in fat and sugar can lead to obesity and other health problems. Foods that are high in fat and sugar should be avoided.

Processed meats like hot dogs and lunch meats are also bad for Fire Eels. These foods can contain harmful chemicals that can make your Fire Eel sick.

Junk food should also be avoided. Junk food is high in fat and sugar and can cause health problems.

By feeding your Fire Eel a healthy diet, you can help keep them healthy and disease-free.

Fire Eel Feeding Schedule

Fire Eels should be fed once or twice a day. They should be given enough food to eat in one sitting.

If you are feeding your Fire Eel live food, you must provide them with enough food to eat at each feeding.

If you are feeding your Fire Eel frozen or freeze-dried food, you must thaw or rehydrate it before feeding it to your Fire Eel.

They are removing uneaten food from the aquarium after each feeding is essential. Uneaten food can decompose and pollute the water.

Fire Eel Tank Mates

Fire Eels are not suitable for community tanks. They should be kept with other eels or fish that are similar in size.

Some suitable tank mates for Fire Eels include:

• Angelfish
• Barbs
• Green terror
• Oscar fish
• Plecos

They are not suitable for tanks with small fish. They may eat fish that are smaller than them.

Fish To Avoid: Fire Eel

Some fish that should be avoided include:

• Guppies
• Mollies
• Platy
• Swordtails
• Tetras

Fire Eels are also not suitable for tanks with fish that are peaceful. Fire Eels can be aggressive and may harm or kill peaceful fish.

Advantages Of Having Fire Eel In Your Tank

The first advantage is that they help keep the tank clean. They do this by eating uneaten food and other debris that can pollute the water.

Another advantage is that they are fascinating to watch. They are nocturnal creatures and prefer to hunt at night. This makes watching them fun as they creep around the tank for food.

Finally, they are not aggressive fish. This makes them suitable for tanks with other fish.

Disadvantages Of Having Fire Eel In Your Tank

One disadvantage of having Fire Eels in your tank is that they require much care and attention. Experienced aquarists should only keep them.

Another disadvantage is that they are challenging to breed in captivity. You will likely have to buy them from a store or breeder.

Finally, they are not suitable for community tanks. They can be aggressive and may harm or kill other fish.

Wrapping Up

Fire Eels are exciting and unique fish that can make a great addition to your tank. They are unsuitable for beginner aquarists and require much care and attention. Experienced aquarists should only keep them.

They have some advantages, such as helping to keep the tank clean and being interesting to watch. However, they also have some disadvantages, such as being difficult to breed in captivity and unsuitable for community tanks.

If you are considering adding a Fire Eel to your tank, research and prepare to take on the challenges of keeping them.

I hope this article has given you some helpful information on Fire Eels. Thanks for reading!