Indian Peacock Eel (Macrognathus aral) – Peaceful Spiny Eel with Eye-Spot Pattern

🟡 Indian Peacock Eel (Macrognathus aral) – Peaceful Spiny Eel with Eye-Spot Pattern

The Indian Peacock Eel is a beautiful, peaceful spiny eel known for its distinct eye-spot “peacock” markings, slender body, and gentle personality. Despite its exotic appearance, this eel is surprisingly calm and does well in planted or soft-substrate aquariums with peaceful tankmates.

Peacock Eels are nocturnal, shy, and love to burrow, making them fascinating to observe once they’re comfortable. They thrive in warm, clean freshwater aquariums with plenty of hiding places.

🌟 Key Features

🟡 Peacock Eye Spots – Bright yellow/black ocelli along the tail
🐍 Graceful, Snake-Like Movement – Smooth, elegant swimming behavior
🌿 Peaceful Temperament – Great for community tanks with similar-sized fish
🪨 Burrowing Species – Loves fine sand and hiding caves
✨ Exotic Display Fish – Unique appearance and personality

⚙️ Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Macrognathus aral
• Common Name: Indian Peacock Eel
• Temperament: Peaceful, shy
• Adult Size: 10–14 inches
• Diet: Carnivore – bloodworms, blackworms, frozen foods, small sinking pellets
• Tank Size: 40 gallons minimum
• Water Temperature: 76–82°F
• pH Range: 6.5–7.6
• Lifespan: 8–12 years
• Activity Level: Nocturnal

💡 Tank Setup Tips

• Soft sand substrate is essential—gravel can injure them.
• Provide pipes, driftwood, caves, and plants for hiding.
• Use a tight-fitting lid—they are escape artists.
• Best tankmates: peaceful barbs, gouramis, rainbows, larger tetras.
• Avoid aggressive fish or fin-nippers.

❓ FAQ

Q: Is the Indian Peacock Eel aggressive?
A: No—very peaceful and shy, but may eat very tiny fish.

Q: Can they live with shrimp?
A: Not recommended—will eat small shrimp.

Q: Do they need sand?
A: Yes, absolutely. Sand prevents skin injury and allows natural burrowing behavior.

Q: Are they escape-prone?
A: Yes—keep all gaps tightly sealed.

Q: What do they eat?
A: They prefer meaty foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, earthworms, and frozen mixes.