Fire Red Eel (11-12Inches) | Single

The Fire Red Eel is a striking and exotic freshwater species, highly valued for its vibrant coloration and unique appearance. At 11-12 inches in length, this eel is a captivating addition to any large aquarium, where it can be both a centerpiece and a conversation starter.

Appearance: The Fire Red Eel is known for its elongated, slender body and its brilliant red or reddish-orange coloration, which gives the eel its name. The vivid color of this eel makes it stand out in any aquarium setting, providing a dramatic contrast to the more typical greens and blues of aquatic environments. Its body is smooth and flexible, allowing it to navigate through tight spaces and crevices, and its small, pointed head is equipped with sensory organs that help it detect food and navigate its surroundings.

Behavior and Temperament: Fire Red Eels are generally peaceful but can be somewhat shy, especially when first introduced to a new environment. They are nocturnal creatures, meaning they are more active during the night, often retreating to caves, crevices, or other hiding spots during the day. Despite their somewhat reclusive nature, they can become more active and visible once they acclimate to their surroundings and feel secure. These eels are also known for their burrowing behavior, often burying themselves in the substrate with just their heads poking out. This natural behavior not only helps them feel secure but also provides them with an excellent vantage point to ambush prey.

Habitat and Tank Setup: Given their size and natural behaviors, Fire Red Eels require a spacious aquarium, ideally  378 litres or larger, to accommodate their growth and activity levels. The tank should have a soft, sandy substrate to allow the eel to burrow comfortably. Additionally, the aquarium should include plenty of hiding spots, such as caves, rocks, and driftwood, where the eel can retreat during the day. Aquascaping should be designed with the eel’s burrowing and hiding habits in mind. Ensure that decorations are securely placed to prevent them from being dislodged by the eel’s movements. The water should be kept clean and well-oxygenated, with a stable temperature range of 24-28°C and a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. A tight-fitting lid is essential, as Fire Red Eels are known to be escape artists and can easily slip through small openings.

Diet: In the wild, Fire Red Eels are carnivorous and primarily feed on small fish, crustaceans, and insects. In captivity, they can be fed a diet of high-quality carnivorous pellets, as well as live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, earthworms, brine shrimp, and small feeder fish. It’s important to feed them at night or in low-light conditions, as they are more active and likely to eat during these times.