Common Name: Tanganyikan Zebra Eel
Scientific Name: Mastacembelus ellipsifer
Other Names: Tanganyikan Eel, Zebra Spiny Eel
The Tanganyikan Zebra Eel is a unique and visually striking freshwater fish known for its elongated body and bold, zebra-like stripes. This species is highly sought after by aquarists for its distinctive appearance and interesting behavior.
Habitat and Distribution:
The Tanganyikan Zebra Eel is native to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa, which spans several countries including Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, and Zambia. These fish inhabit rocky shores and sandy bottoms, often hiding among rocks and crevices during the day and becoming more active at night.
Size and Lifespan:
In both the wild and captivity, Tanganyikan Zebra Eels can grow up to 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) in length. With proper care, their lifespan can range from 10 to 15 years, depending on the quality of their diet and water conditions.
Diet and Behavior:
Tanganyikan Zebra Eels are carnivorous, feeding on a variety of small invertebrates and fish in their natural habitat. In an aquarium, their diet should include high-quality carnivorous pellets, live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small pieces of fish or shrimp. These eels are nocturnal and most active during the night, using their keen senses to locate food. They are generally peaceful but can be predatory towards smaller tank mates, so they are best kept with similarly sized or larger, non-aggressive fish.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding Tanganyikan Zebra Eels in captivity is challenging and rarely achieved. Little is documented about their breeding habits in the wild. They are believed to be egg scatterers, laying their eggs among rocks and crevices. To encourage breeding, provide plenty of hiding spots and maintain optimal water conditions with regular water changes. Successful breeding typically requires very large, well-maintained tanks with specific environmental conditions.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
Due to their large size and specific needs, Tanganyikan Zebra Eels require a large aquarium, with a minimum of 75-100 gallons recommended for adult specimens. The tank should have a soft, sandy or fine gravel substrate to prevent injury to their delicate bodies. Include plenty of hiding spots created with rocks, driftwood, and caves to mimic their natural habitat and reduce stress. Efficient filtration and regular water changes are essential to maintaining water quality. The water temperature should be kept between 75-82°F (24-28°C), with a pH of 7.5-8.5 and moderately hard to hard water.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Tanganyikan Zebra Eels can be kept with other large, peaceful fish that share similar water parameter requirements. Suitable tank mates include larger cichlids and similarly sized robust fish. Avoid housing them with small or delicate species that may become targets of predation.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate to Advanced. Keeping Tanganyikan Zebra Eels requires a deep understanding of their needs, including their large size, nocturnal behavior, and specific water quality requirements. They are best suited for experienced aquarists with the space and resources to provide proper care.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
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pH: 7.5-8.5
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General Hardness (GH): 10-20 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 8-12 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm (ideal)
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Nitrite: 0 ppm (ideal)
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Nitrate: <20 ppm (ideal)
Additional Information:
- The Tanganyikan Zebra Eel’s bold stripes and elongated body make it a standout addition to any large aquarium.
- They are known for their nocturnal behavior, often hiding during the day and becoming more active at night.
- Fun fact: Tanganyikan Zebra Eels have a highly developed sense of smell, which helps them locate prey in the dark.
