The Tire Track Eel, or Mastacembelus armatus, is an interesting and distinctive addition to freshwater aquariums. Hobbyists and enthusiasts alike are drawn to this species because of its unique patterns and elongated body, which set it apart from other aquarium inhabitants.
The Tire Track Eel, despite its name, is a member of the spiny eel family and not a true eel. Because of its inquisitive disposition, it is frequently observed investigating every nook and cranny of its surroundings. Being a nocturnal predator, this fish brings an interesting dynamic to any aquarium setup because it is most active at night.
But maintaining a Mastacembelus armatus needs careful thought. It is best suited for large tanks due to its tendency to grow to a maximum length of three feet. To maintain its health and well-being, this species also has particular dietary and habitat requirements that must be satisfied.
| Feature | Description |
| Common Name | Spiny Eel |
| Scientific Name | Mastacembelus armatus |
| Size | Up to 36 inches (90 cm) |
| Diet | Carnivorous, prefers live food |
| Tank Size | Minimum 100 gallons |
| Water Temperature | 72-82°F (22-28°C) |
| pH Level | 6.5-7.5 |
| Behavior | Mostly nocturnal, can be aggressive |
| Lifespan | 10-15 years |
- Habitat and habitat
- Description
- Size
- Behavior and compatibility
- Aquarium
- Water parameters:
- Nutrition
- Sexual dimorphism
- Breeding
- Related videos
- Mastacembelus Armatus
- MASTACEMBEL ARMATUS (AQUARIUM EEL) Mastacembelus armatus
- Mastacembelus Armatus (Mastacembelus armatus)
- MASTACEMBEL ARMATUS (AQUARIUM EEL) Mastacembelus armatus
- Mastacembelus Armatus Mastacembelus armatus
Habitat and habitat
Asia: Sumatra, India, and Thailand.
Where there is aquatic vegetation, Mastacembelus Armatus favors rivers and streams with rocky and sandy bottoms. inhabits coastal marshes and lowlands as well.
They are found in canals, lakes, and other areas of flooded plains during the summer rainy season.
Description
Mastacembela Armatus has a snake-like body with small scales covering it. The body is dark brown with a lighter shade on the belly, and the head is silvery beige in color. Two thirds of the body is covered in a mesh pattern made up of circles. The fish has transverse brown stripes that go through its eyes. There are many tiny spines running along the back, no ventral fins, and elongated anal and dorsal fins that are connected to the caudal fin.
Depending on the habitat, Mastacembela Armatus exhibits a range of natural color variations.
Size
While 91 cm is the maximum standard length, aquarium sizes are more constrained.
Behavior and compatibility
Generally speaking, this species of fish lives in peaceful communities, but you should make sure your tankmates are big enough to prevent them from becoming prey because they eat live fish in the wild. Small fish should not be kept because they will be eaten. As Armored Mastacembelus can be aggressive toward members of their own species, it is advised to keep only one of these animals per aquarium. Occasionally, keeping the fish in clusters of five or more can help prevent this.
Aquarium
Aquarium with a 200-liter capacity and a size of 100 cm. As a juvenile, it can be kept in a smaller tank.
Aquarium plants should be used liberally; floating plants can also be employed. This species prefers to hide during the day, so there should be plenty of hiding spots available. PVC pipes, driftwood, and different caverns and grottoes are all appropriate for this use. The best substrate to use is sand because "spiny eels" frequently like to burrow.
The fish will come out of hiding more frequently if the lighting is dim or weak. Mastacembelus can find a "escape route" even through a small hole, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.
Water parameters:
In the range of 24 to 28 °C pH range: 6.0 to 7.5 Hardness: DH 5 to 15
Since this fish primarily lives in areas with standing water in the wild, substituting water should only be done in small amounts. The ideal conditions for this species are slightly brackish water.
The tire track eel, or Mastacembelus armatus, is a unique and fascinating freshwater fish that is well-liked by aquarium enthusiasts due to its eye-catching appearance and captivating behavior. This species is distinguished by its long, eel-like body and a complex marking scheme that resembles tire tracks. Although it’s fascinating to watch, it can be shy and territorial, so you’ll need a large, well-kept tank with lots of hiding places. This fascinating fish needs proper care to remain healthy and flourish in a home aquarium. This care includes a varied diet and appropriate water conditions.
Nutrition
Favors foods like krill and shrimp. Bloodworms, tubifex, and other live and frozen foods are also enjoyed by fish, but they probably won’t be sufficient on their own to raise and maintain a large fish. Plant foods are also accepted by certain specimens, though this is extremely uncommon.
Sexual dimorphism
When a female is ready to mate, she is plumper.
Breeding
There are no reports of aquarium breeding.
Eight to eighteen years of life, depending on the circumstances of incarceration.
Any aquarium would benefit greatly from the presence of the fascinating Mastacembelus armatus, with its remarkable appearance and distinct behavior. But because of its particular requirements and care requirements, it’s best suited for knowledgeable aquarists.
This species needs a well-kept tank and lots of hiding places, so you need to provide it the perfect habitat. Its size and tendency to act aggressively toward smaller tankmates also mean that companion selection must be done carefully.
In conclusion, even though keeping Mastacembelus armatus can be rewarding, it’s crucial to comprehend all of its requirements and traits before bringing one into your aquarium.
