Pancal Spiny Eel

Macrognathus pancalus is a smaller, more manageable spiny eel from South and Southeast Asia, featuring a row of distinctive eyespots along the dorsal fin base and attractive body patterning. At around 18 cm maximum length, it is one of the more suitable spiny eel species for home aquariums. A secretive burrower by nature, it spends much of the day hidden in substrate or among dense plant growth, becoming more active and visible after dark.

Provide deep, fine sand substrate for burrowing. Include dense vegetation, caves, and hiding places. Use a tight-fitting lid as spiny eels escape readily. Feed live and frozen meaty foods: bloodworm, earthworm segments, frozen shrimp. Avoid housing with very small fish.