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Macrognathus aculeatus
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Macrognathus aculeatus

Common Names: Lesser Spiny Eel
Peacock Eel
Spiny Eel
Synonyms: Mastacembelus aculeatus
Ophidium aculeatum
Rhyncobdella aculeata
Family: Mastacembelidae
Category: OthersFW
Distribution: Asia; South East Asia.
Main Ecosystem: River; River
Temperament: Predatory; Nocturnal, predatory towards small fish.
Diet: Carnivore; Carnivore
Care: Feed worms, small fish,and ghost shrimp. Flakes and pellets are sometimes accepted. A long tank is definitely required, with a large cave for hiding. Plants are also recommended. Use 1 teaspoon of salt per 6 litres of water. Can be kept with other retiring fish that are too big to be considered prey.
pH:
6.5 - 7.5
Temperature:
23°C - 28°C
73°F - 82°F
Hardness:
10 dH - 20 dH
Potential Size: Male: 40cm (15.7")
Female: 40cm (15.7")
Water Region: Bottom; Bottom
Activity: Nocturnal; Nocturnal
Gender: Cannot be determined from external features.
Breeding: Accomplished but near impossible in an aquarium.
Variants:
Comments: Though social, this species needs its space. A species tank with roughly 20 gallons per fish is sufficient as they maintain a relatively small size. Unassuming and timid, they are easily spooked by larger, more rambunctious fish. Spiny Eels will sometimes bury themselves in the substrate with only their heads sticking out, waiting to ambush smaller fish. Thus, a fine grained gravel or sand substrate is preferred.
Main Colours:
Markings: Not Specified
Mouth: Not Specified
Tail: Not Specified
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Image Credit: © FishProfiles.com
Submitted By: Adam
Contributors: zachf92
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