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ZIG ZAG SPINY EEL
ZIG ZAG SPINY EEL
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$12.99 USD
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The Zig-zag spiny eel (Mastacembelus armatus), also known as the tire-track eel, is an elongated, snake-like freshwater fish native to rivers and streams across South and Southeast Asia. Despite its name and appearance, it is not a true eel but a ray-finned fish in the spiny eel family (Mastacembelidae).
Key Characteristics
- Appearance and Pattern: The fish has a dull brown body with a lighter belly and features one to three darker, irregular longitudinal lines that connect to form a distinct reticulated or zig-zag pattern along the top two-thirds of its body. Its head is typically silver-beige with brown stripes running across the eyes.
- Size: In the wild, zig-zag eels can grow up to 36 inches (91 cm) in length, but they typically reach a maximum of 20 inches (51 cm) in an aquarium setting.
- Physical Features: It possesses a pointed snout with two pairs of nostrils used for detecting food in the substrate. It lacks pelvic fins, and its anal and dorsal fins are long and connected to the tail fin. The dorsal fin is preceded by many small, sharp spines.
- Habitat and Behavior: These fish are nocturnal bottom-dwellers, often found in environments with sandy or rocky riverbeds and heavy vegetation. They are known to burrow into the substrate and use their camouflage to hide from predators and prey.
- Diet: They are carnivorous, primarily feeding on insect larvae, worms, and small fish in their natural habitat. In captivity, they accept live or frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp.
The zig-zag eel is a popular aquarium fish due to its unique look and behavior, though a secure lid is essential as they are known to be excellent escape artists.
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