Mastacembelus Armatus – Zig-Zag Eel – Tire-Track Eel – Marbled Spiny Eel

Short Description:
The Mastacembelus Armatus, also known as the Zig-Zag Eel, Tire-Track Eel, or Marbled Spiny Eel, is a fascinating and unique freshwater fish. With its distinctive appearance and interesting behaviors, this eel is a great addition to any aquarium. This comprehensive guide provides all the necessary information for keeping and caring for this species, including its habitat, tank setup, diet, size, behavior, breeding, and more.

Product Categories: Eels, Fish

Secure Transit:
To ensure the safe arrival of your Mastacembelus Armatus, we offer a reliable 24-hour courier service. Your fish will be carefully packaged in poly boxes and equipped with heat packs during colder months. This guarantees that your eel will arrive in excellent condition, ready to thrive in its new home.

Shipping Convenience:
We understand the importance of convenience when it comes to shipping. That’s why we offer the option to combine multiple items in one order. This helps streamline the shipping process, saving you time and effort.

Dead on Arrival (DOA) Policy:
In the unfortunate event that your Mastacembelus Armatus arrives deceased, we have a Dead on Arrival (DOA) policy in place. Simply inform us promptly with photographic evidence, and we will either refund you or send you a replacement eel. Your satisfaction is our top priority.

Product Description:

Scientific and Common Names:
The Mastacembelus Armatus, commonly known as the Zig-Zag Eel, Tire-Track Eel, or Marbled Spiny Eel, belongs to the Mastacembelidae family. Its scientific name refers to its armored appearance and zig-zag pattern.

Habitat:
This eel is native to Southeast Asia, specifically found in rivers and streams with slow-moving or stagnant water. It prefers areas with sandy or muddy substrates and plenty of hiding spots, such as rocks, driftwood, and plants.

Tank Setup:
To provide a suitable habitat for the Mastacembelus Armatus, a spacious aquarium with a minimum capacity of 50 gallons is recommended. The tank should have a sandy or muddy substrate, along with plenty of hiding places created by rocks, caves, driftwood, and live plants. A tight-fitting lid is essential as these eels are known to be skilled escape artists.

Diet and Nutrition:
In the wild, the Zig-Zag Eel is a carnivorous species, feeding on small invertebrates, insects, and crustaceans. In captivity, they can be fed a varied diet consisting of live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, blackworms, and small fish. It is important to provide a balanced diet to ensure their nutritional needs are met.

Size and Growth Rate:
The Mastacembelus Armatus can grow up to 20-24 inches in length, making it a relatively large eel species. However, their growth rate is slow, and it may take several years for them to reach their maximum size.

Behavioral Traits:
These eels are known for their unique and fascinating behaviors. They are primarily nocturnal and spend most of their time hiding in caves or burrowing in the substrate. They have a zig-zag pattern on their body, which they use to blend into their surroundings and avoid predators. They are generally peaceful but may become territorial towards their own species or other bottom-dwelling fish.

Care Level:
The care level for the Mastacembelus Armatus is moderate. While they are hardy and adaptable, they require specific water conditions and a well-maintained aquarium. Regular water changes, proper filtration, and monitoring of water parameters are essential for their well-being.

Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding the Zig-Zag Eel in captivity is challenging and rarely achieved. They are egg-layers, and the female will release eggs that are fertilized by the male. The eggs are then scattered and left unattended. Providing suitable breeding conditions, such as a separate breeding tank with appropriate water parameters, may increase the chances of successful breeding.

Health and Disease Prevention:
To ensure the health of your Mastacembelus Armatus, it is crucial to maintain excellent water quality and provide a balanced diet. Regular observation for any signs of illness, such as loss of appetite, abnormal behavior, or physical abnormalities, is important. Quarantining new additions to the aquarium and practicing good hygiene can help prevent the introduction of diseases.

Optimal Water Conditions:
The Mastacembelus Armatus thrives in water with the following conditions:
– Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
– pH: 6.5-7.5
– Hardness: 5-15 dGH

Lifespan:
With proper care, the Zig-Zag Eel can live for 10-15 years or even longer. Providing a suitable environment, a balanced diet, and regular monitoring of their health will contribute to their longevity.

Additional Interesting Facts:
– The Mastacembelus Armatus has a unique ability to breathe air using a specialized organ called the labyrinth organ. This allows them to survive in oxygen-deprived environments.
– They have a long, slender body with a pointed snout and small eyes, which helps them navigate through narrow spaces and burrows.
– Despite their eel-like appearance, they are not true eels but belong to the spiny eel family.
– The zig-zag pattern on their body serves as camouflage, helping them blend into their surroundings and avoid predators.

In conclusion, the Mastacembelus Armatus, also known as the Zig-Zag Eel, Tire-Track Eel, or Marbled Spiny Eel, is a captivating freshwater fish with unique attributes. This comprehensive guide provides all the necessary information for successfully keeping and caring for this species, including its habitat, tank setup, diet, size, behavior, breeding, and more. With our secure transit and shipping convenience, you can confidently add this fascinating eel to your aquarium collection.