Banded Spiny Eel (Macrognathus circumcinctus) – Peaceful Nocturnal Oddball Fish

🐍 Banded Spiny Eel (Macrognathus circumcinctus) – Peaceful Nocturnal Oddball Fish

The Banded Spiny Eel (Macrognathus circumcinctus) is a fascinating and peaceful freshwater eel-like species known for its distinct golden body rings and curious behavior. A member of the spiny eel family, this slender, nocturnal fish makes a unique addition to community or oddball aquariums.

Despite their exotic appearance, Banded Spiny Eels are gentle and intelligent, often learning to recognize their keepers. They thrive in soft substrate tanks where they can burrow safely and explore their surroundings at night.

🌟 Key Features

✨ Golden Bands & Patterning – Unique ringed markings along the body
🐍 Eel-Like Body Shape – Graceful swimmer with fascinating movement
🌿 Peaceful Nature – Great for calm community tanks
💧 Bottom Dweller – Prefers fine sand for burrowing and hiding
🍤 Curious & Intelligent – Quickly learns feeding routines and keepers

⚙️ Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Macrognathus circumcinctus
• Common Name: Banded Spiny Eel
• Origin: Southeast Asia (Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia)
• Temperament: Peaceful, shy
• Adult Size: 6–8 inches
• Diet: Carnivore – live or frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and sinking carnivore pellets
• Tank Size: 30+ gallons (larger preferred for adults)
• Water Temperature: 75–82°F
• pH Range: 6.5–7.5
• Lifespan: 5–8 years with proper care

💡 Tank Setup Tips

• Use fine sand substrate to prevent skin injury during burrowing.
• Provide hiding spots using caves, driftwood, and dense plants.
• Keep tight lids—spiny eels are escape artists!
• Maintain excellent water quality with moderate flow and stable parameters.
• Best kept with peaceful tankmates like gouramis, Corydoras, and rasboras.

❓ FAQ

Q: Are Banded Spiny Eels aggressive?
A: No—they’re peaceful but may eat very small fish or fry if hungry.

Q: What do they eat?
A: They prefer meaty foods such as bloodworms, blackworms, and brine shrimp.

Q: Can they live in planted tanks?
A: Yes! Just ensure plants are rooted in fine sand or placed in pots.

Q: Will they hide often?
A: Yes, they’re nocturnal but become more active and social once settled.

Q: Are they safe with shrimp or snails?
A: They may snack on small shrimp but typically ignore snails.