Common Name: African Starry Night Eel
Scientific Name: Mastacembelus frenatus
Other Names: Starry Night Eel, Spiny Eel
The African Starry Night Eel is a striking freshwater fish known for its elongated, eel-like body and distinctive starry pattern. This species features a dark brown to black coloration adorned with white or light-colored spots that resemble stars against a night sky, giving it a unique and captivating appearance. The African Starry Night Eel is a member of the spiny eel family, characterized by the small spines along its back, adding to its intriguing look.
Habitat and Distribution: The African Starry Night Eel is native to the slow-moving rivers, streams, and swamps of West and Central Africa, particularly found in countries like Nigeria, Cameroon, and the Congo Basin. These fish inhabit areas with dense vegetation, submerged roots, and soft, muddy or sandy substrates. The water in their natural habitat is typically warm, slightly acidic to neutral, and often rich in organic material.
Size and Lifespan: In the wild and captivity, African Starry Night Eels can grow up to 20-24 inches (50-60 cm) in length. Their lifespan can range from 10 to 15 years, depending on the care and conditions provided in the aquarium. Ensuring a proper diet, clean water, and adequate space are crucial for their longevity and well-being.
Diet and Behavior: African Starry Night Eels are carnivorous and have a diet that includes small fish, crustaceans, insects, and other meaty foods in the wild. In an aquarium, they should be fed a varied diet of live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small fish, as well as high-quality carnivorous pellets. These fish are nocturnal and more active during the night, often hiding during the day. They are generally peaceful but can be territorial and predatory towards smaller tank mates.
Breeding and Reproduction: Breeding African Starry Night Eels in captivity is rare and challenging due to their specific environmental needs and behaviors. Little is documented about their breeding habits in the wild, and successful reproduction typically involves creating conditions that closely mimic their natural habitat. A separate breeding tank with optimal water conditions, plenty of hiding spots, and a soft substrate is necessary. The female lays eggs in secluded areas, and there is no parental care for the eggs or fry.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements: To keep African Starry Night Eels, a tank of at least 75 gallons is recommended to provide ample swimming space and accommodate their size. The tank should include plenty of hiding spots created with rocks, driftwood, and dense plants to mimic their natural habitat and reduce stress. A soft, sandy substrate is ideal to protect their delicate skin. Gentle water flow and efficient filtration are essential to maintain water quality. Regular water changes are crucial to keep the environment clean and stable. As mentioned, a tightly fitting lid is necessary to prevent escapes, as eels are known to be excellent escape artists.
Ideal Tank Mates: African Starry Night Eels can be kept with other peaceful, similarly sized fish that share similar water parameter requirements. Suitable tank mates include larger tetras, peaceful cichlids, and non-aggressive catfish. Avoid housing them with very small fish, which may be seen as prey, or overly aggressive fish that may bully or stress them.
Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced. While they are hardy and adaptable, their nocturnal behavior, specific dietary needs, and tendency to escape require attentive care and a well-maintained aquarium.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
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pH: 6.0-7.5
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General Hardness (GH): 5-20 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 4-10 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm (ideal), up to 0.25 ppm (max)
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Nitrite: 0 ppm (ideal), up to 0.25 ppm (max)
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Nitrate: <20 ppm (ideal), up to 40 ppm (max)
Additional Information:
- The African Starry Night Eel's unique body shape and starry pattern make it a captivating addition to any aquarium, providing both visual interest and a touch of exotic beauty.
- These fish are known for their ability to burrow and hide, so providing a well-decorated tank with plenty of hiding spots is essential for their well-being.
- In their natural habitats, African Starry Night Eels play a role in controlling populations of small invertebrates and fish, contributing to the ecological balance.
- Fun fact: The African Starry Night Eel can use its spines for defense, making it less appealing to potential predators and helping it survive in the wild.
