Overview
The Tire Track Eel (Mastacembelus armatus) is a intermediate freshwater species known for its brown-tan, dark zig-zag pattern coloration. Zig-zag pattern. Bottom.
Origin & Appearance
Origin: South/Southeast Asia.
Colors: Brown-Tan, Dark zig-zag pattern.
Body Shape: Filiform (eel-like/snake). Typical adult dimensions: 90.0 x 5.4 x 5.4.
Sexual Dimorphism: Minimal.
Tank & Water Requirements
| Min Tank Size | 125 gallons |
| Temperature | 75–82°F |
| pH Range | 6.5–7.5 |
| Water Hardness (GH) | 5-15 |
| Bioload | very-high |
| Oxygen Demand | high |
| Plant Safe | mostly |
| Aquarium Position | Bottom |
Behavior & Activity
Bottom burrower; snake-like undulation when swimming; buries in sand during day; powerful nocturnal hunter
Speed: 30/100Aggression: 4/10nocturnal
Breeding
Difficult; not bred in home aquaria
Common Diseases
💊 Ich
Expert Notes
Zig-zag pattern; large spiny eel