Freshwater Leopard Eel

Scientific Name

• Mastacembelus armatus

Origin

• South Asia and Southeast Asia
• Found in rivers of India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and surrounding regions
• Lives in muddy bottoms, slow rivers, and floodplain waters

Appearance

• Long, eel-like body
• Brown or olive base color with dark leopard/chain-like patterns
• Pointed snout used for digging
• Can grow large: 30–70 cm (12–28 inches) depending on conditions
• Small dorsal spines (hence “spiny eel”)

Temperament

• Peaceful but predatory toward small fish
• Shy and nocturnal
• Spends most of the day hiding
• Active at night searching for food

Best tank mates:

• Medium to large peaceful fish
• Larger tetras (not nano species)
• Gouramis
• Silver dollars
• Avoid small fish (neon tetras may be eaten)

Tank Requirements

Minimum Tank Size

• 75 gallons (recommended 100+ gallons for adults)

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 24–28°C
• pH: 6.5–7.5
• Soft to moderately hard water

Tank Setup

• Soft sand substrate (very important)
• Multiple caves, PVC tubes, driftwood
• Dim lighting (they dislike bright light)
• Tight lid (they are expert escape artists)

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous:

• Bloodworms
• Earthworms
• Blackworms
• Shrimp pieces
• Frozen meaty foods
• Sinking carnivore pellets