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Size
Maximum length of 40 inches (100 cm). -
Diet
Omnivorous benthic feeder. -
Range
Occurs in freshwater environments in parts of Asia. -
Habitat
Inhabits sluggish lowland waters.
Physical Characteristics
- Maximum length of 40 inches (100 cm).
- Narrow, pointed snout; head is triangular in shape and gradually widens into the streamlined body with small pectoral fins towards the front portion. Body ends in a thin paddle-like tail.
- Head, body and tail are black in coloration but may appear green or blue depending on lighting.
- Head and back portion of body streaked with red and black horizontal bands. Middle section of body has prominent red spots or elongated marks.
Animal Fact
The fire eel externally fertilizes its eggs.
Diet / Feeding
- Omnivorous benthic feeder.
- Diet consists of insect larva, worms, small fish and some plant material.
Range / Habitat
- Occurs in freshwater environments in parts of Asia, including Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam through Malaysia and Indonesia.
- Inhabits sluggish lowland waters including slow-moving rivers and floodplains.
Reproduction & Growth
- Dioecious; externally fertilizes eggs.
- Does not display egg guarding behavior.
Conservation Status
- “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List.
Additional Information
- Member of the spiny eel (Mastacembelidae) family. This family of eels is named for the spines running along the back. These spines, however, are not harmful to humans.
