Mastacembelus Clouei

Mastacembelus clouei is a medium-to-large spiny eel from the Congo River basin, displaying distinct alternating dark brown and cream or pale yellow banding along the full length of its elongated body. This vivid banding makes it one of the more visually appealing Congo basin spiny eels and a popular choice among dedicated African fish enthusiasts.

As a Congo basin species, Mastacembelus clouei prefers softer, more acidic to neutral water than the hard-water Tanganyikan Mastacembelus species. Fine sand substrate is critical for burrowing behaviour, and the aquarium should include ample driftwood, caves, and leaf litter to replicate the natural river environment. This species is primarily nocturnal.

Cloue's Spiny Eel readily accepts frozen bloodworm and earthworm. It is peaceful toward medium-to-large fish but will consume anything small enough to swallow. Ensuring a secure, gapless lid is essential as spiny eels are notorious escape artists.

Water: Soft to moderately hard, pH 6.0–7.5, temperature 23–27°C, GH 2–12, KH 1–6. Tank: Minimum 250 L with fine sand, driftwood caves, leaf litter, and gapless lid. Feeding: Carnivore; frozen bloodworm, earthworm, prawns, and sinking carnivore pellets. Breeding: Rarely achieved in captivity; egg layer in submerged crevices. Compatibility: Peaceful with medium to large Congo basin fish; predatory toward small fish.