Ocellated Spiny Eel

Macrognathus ocellatus is a widely distributed spiny eel found in the rivers and lakes of southern China, Taiwan, and northern Vietnam. Unlike most of its close relatives, it inhabits subtropical as well as tropical regions and is comfortable at lower temperatures, giving it an advantage in unheated or mildly heated aquariums in temperate climates.

Its row of eye-like ocelli along the dorsal fin base is clearly defined and very similar in placement to the peacock eel, though the species itself is notably larger and somewhat cooler in its temperature requirements. It can be kept alongside other subtropical species such as weather loaches, goldfish varieties, and temperate barbs.

Feeding follows standard spiny eel lines: live and frozen bloodworm, earthworms, and small invertebrates are all taken. Once settled, sinking pellets are usually accepted. Its cooler temperature tolerance and moderate size make it a genuinely interesting alternative to purely tropical spiny eels for keepers with a subtropical or temperate focus.

Water: Soft to moderately hard, pH 6.5–7.5, temperature 18–26°C, GH 3–15, KH 1–8. Tank: Minimum 120 L, fine sand, hiding spots, cool to moderate temperature, sealed lid. Feeding: Carnivore; bloodworm, earthworms, tubifex, and sinking pellets. Breeding: Rarely documented; assumed egg-scatterer in soft cool water conditions. Compatibility: Peaceful with medium subtropical and tropical community fish.