Unicolor Spiny Eel (7”)

Unicolor Spiny Eel Overview

• Common Name: Unicolor Spiny Eel, or One-color Spiny Eel

• Scientific Name: Mastacemblus unicolor

• Family: Mastacembelidae (Spiny Eel Family)

• Origin: Native to South and Southeast Asian countries such as India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Thailand.

• Adult Size: Typically 24“ though they can grow slightly larger in ideal conditions.

• Lifespan: 8–10 years in captivity, sometimes longer with optimal care.

Natural Environment

• Habitat:

  • The Unicolor Spiny Eel is found in slow-moving streams, rivers, and flooded plains, particularly in muddy or sandy substrates.

  • They are typically found in areas where there is plenty of cover in the form of submerged roots, rocks, or leaf litter. They tend to burrow in soft substrate for protection.

  • They thrive in slightly turbid (cloudy) water, which helps them hide and feel safe.

• Water Conditions:

  • Temperature: Prefers 75–82°F (24–28°C), as they are native to tropical climates.

  • pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.5–7.5.

  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (around 5–15 dGH).

  • Water Flow: These eels generally prefer calm to slightly moving water, with low to moderate flow.

• Behavior:

  • The Unicolor Spiny Eel is relatively shy and nocturnal, often hiding during the day and becoming more active at night.

  • They are bottom dwellers that like to burrow into the substrate, and can even create a small depression in the sand or gravel to hide in.

  • They are solitary, and although they are peaceful, they may become territorial in smaller tanks or when competing for space.

 Diet

The Unicolor Spiny Eel is an omnivorous and carnivorous feeder in the wild:

• Wild Diet:

  • They typically eat small invertebrates like worms, crustaceans, and insects, as well as detritus and organic matter found in the substrate.

• In Captivity:

  • Live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and earthworms are great staples.

  • They also enjoy pellets (preferably sinking ones) designed for carnivores.

  • Blanched vegetables like zucchini and spinach can be offered occasionally, but they should be supplemented with protein-rich food.

  • Earthworms and small fish (e.g., guppies or minnows) are particularly enticing to them, but these should not make up their entire diet.

Spiny eels can be slow eaters, and they may be shy during feeding time, so offering food after lights-out or with the lights dimmed is a good idea to prevent competition with other more aggressive fish.

Recommended Aquarium Setup

Due to their relatively small size and peaceful nature, the Unicolor Spiny Eel is suited for a community aquarium with other peaceful species. Here are some key points for their setup:

• Tank Size:

  • Minimum 75 gallons (150 liters) or more is better if you plan to keep it with other fish or want to ensure ample swimming space.

  • As they are burrowers, a larger tank provides more substrate area for them to feel comfortable.

• Aquascaping:

  • Fine sand or smooth gravel substrate is ideal, as it allows the eel to burrow comfortably. Avoid rough or sharp substrates that could injure their delicate skin.

  • Include caves, rocks, and driftwood for hiding spots.

  • The eel will spend much of its time in hiding during the day, so ensure there are plenty of nooks and crannies where it can rest undisturbed.

• Water Quality:

  • Regular water changes (around 20–25% every week) are essential to keep the water clean and free from excess waste.

• Tank Mates:

  • Unicolor Spiny Eels are generally peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful community fish, such as:

    • Barbs,Silver Dollars etc.

    •  Loaches

    • Electric Blue Acara, Geophagus, etc.

  • Avoid aggressive or large fish that may outcompete the eel for food or pose a threat.

  • They may try to eat very small tankmates (like shrimps), so care should be taken when selecting tank companions.

 Other Considerations

• Shyness: Spiny eels are shy and may take time to adjust to their new environment. Once they settle in, they can be quite active at night.

• Escape Artists: Like many eel species, they are excellent escape artists. Ensure the aquarium is tightly covered, as they can wriggle through small openings.

• Growth Rate: While they grow relatively slowly, they can reach up to 24 inches in length, so they need enough space to swim and burrow.

• Feeding Time: If your eel is not eating right away, give it some time to adjust. They may not be as fast or aggressive during feeding times as other fish, but they will come out once they’re familiar with their environment.