Tire-Track Eel
Genus: Mastacembelus
Species: M. favus
Maximum Size: 28″
Aggression: Low
Temperature: 75-82 F
pH: 6-7.5
Hardness: 5-19 dH
Brackish Tolerance: 1.000-1.005
Minimum Tank Size: 100 gallons
Feeding: High quality sinking pellets, frozen shrimp/krill, pieces of fish, earthworms
Notes: There are two species of “Tire Track Eels” sold in the trade; the smaller M. favus seems to be more common but M. armatus is sold sometimes. The way to tell the difference is that M. favus has markings from the top of its body to the belly while M. armatus only has markings halfway down the body. Both species are similar in terms of case.
The Tire Track Eel is a fish (not a true eel) that certainly needs a specialized aquarium. As burrowers, these fish do best with smooth sand substrates, though larger specimens will likely be fine with small, rounded gravel. Any plants in the tank should be attached to rocks (like Anubias and Java Fern) or will otherwise be uprooted eventually.
Feeding can be difficult as these fish are not great at competing for food and starvation is a common concern. The best options are to train for hand feeding or to feed at night. If the latter approach is chosen, it’s best not to house with any other fish that feed at night like Brown Hoplos or Horseface Loaches. As with many eel-shaped fish, the Tire Track Eel is an accomplished escape artist and will escape any aquarium if steps are not taken to keep them in.
Breeding is not accomplished in the home aquarium. Although freshwater fish, Tire Track Eels are prone to skin infections from scratches while burrowing. Marine Salt seems to help prevent these infections from occurring. Prevention is by far the best “cure”, as most medications (including those containing copper) are fatal to these fish.
Sources
FAQs on Tire Track Eels, Wetwebmedia
The truth about spiny eels; A closer look at these popular but problematic oddballs, Neale Monks
Mastacembelus armatus (Tyre-Track Eel), Seriously Fish
