Zebra Spiny Eel

About

The zebra spiny eel (Macrognathus zebrinus) is a relatively recent addition to the hobby and one of the more visually interesting members of its family, wearing a pattern of dark and light banding that explains the common name. Native to the Irrawaddy, Sittang, and Salween river systems of Myanmar, it grows into a substantial fish. Adults regularly reach well over a foot in length, which is worth keeping in mind when planning a tank. Like other spiny eels, it was formerly grouped under Mastacembelus, and it carries the same sharp dorsal spines that give the whole family their name; handle any net or the fish itself carefully, because those spines can puncture skin without much effort. In a community setting, this species can work alongside larger, robust tankmates that it cannot swallow, but it does not play well with others of its own kind. If you want to keep more than one, you will need serious real estate. The "beginner" care label reflects its general hardiness and adaptability, though its eventual size and territorial streak mean it is better suited to someone who has thought through the long-term commitment. Captive breeding has not been achieved so far.