Mastacembelus Ellipsifer

Mastacembelus ellipsifer is a graceful spiny eel endemic to Lake Tanganyika, featuring a series of pale oval or elliptical spots distributed along a darker background, giving it an almost leopard-like appearance. It is one of the more popular spiny eels for Tanganyikan cichlid communities due to its tolerance of the alkaline, hard water conditions of the lake.

In the aquarium, this species requires fine sand or very fine gravel for burrowing — it spends much of its time partially buried or hidden in crevices among rockwork. Ample hiding spots in the form of caves, PVC pipes, and stacked rock are essential for security. It is primarily nocturnal but becomes more active during feeding time once established.

Mastacembelus ellipsifer feeds readily on frozen bloodworm, earthworm, and prawns, and can be trained to accept sinking carnivore pellets. It is peaceful toward cichlids and other large Tanganyikan residents but will consume small fish and invertebrates.

Water: Hard and alkaline, pH 7.5–9.0, temperature 24–27°C, GH 10–20, KH 8–18. Tank: Minimum 250 L, fine sand for burrowing, rock caves and crevices, secure lid. Feeding: Carnivore; frozen bloodworm, earthworm, prawns, and sinking carnivore pellets. Breeding: Egg depositor; rarely bred in captivity; female significantly larger than male. Compatibility: Peaceful with medium to large Tanganyikan cichlids; predatory toward small fish.