Can I Take Care Of A Freshwater Eel?

Do you want to raise fish that are active, especially during the day?

Do you already have small, slow-swimming fish species in your aquarium?

Can you provide a large aquarium (at least 20 gallons) with a secure lid for a freshwater eel?

Can you commit to maintaining freshwater eel's enclosure regularly?

Can you provide a well-balanced freshwater eel diet that consists of frozen, live, pelleted, or freeze-dried food daily?

Can you recognize an unhealthy eel?

Freshwater eels are usually sedentary and like to spend time hidden. They tend to be nocturnal (active at night) and live in holes or caves. If you are planning to have a colorful aquarium with active fish (especially during the day), freshwater eels should not be your first choice.

You should not house freshwater eels with small, slow-swimming fish species. Eels may become aggressive in an overcrowded aquarium and attack smaller fishes.

Freshwater eels (depending on species) can grow to be quite long. They usually grow 1 to 3 feet long, but some species can grow even longer. They should be kept in an aquarium of appropriate size for their length. A minimum of 20 gallons is essential for freshwater eels, but some species need even larger tanks. The aquarium should also have a secure lid, as eels are known to jump out of their enclosure. Provide hiding places and plenty of room to swim.

Stable water quality and parameters are critical to the health of aquatic life. To maintain habitat for this fish you will need to check the filter, water temperature, and other equipment daily; check water quality at least once a week, and change 10-25% of the total volume of water every 2 to 4 weeks. If you cannot commit to doing at least this much, eels may not be for you.

Freshwater eels should be fed once a day usually in the evening with a well-balanced freshwater eel diet that consists of frozen, live, pelleted, or freeze-dried food. Some species of eels may refuse food and eat only every 2 to 3 weeks.

You can take care of a freshwater eel!

Eels are susceptible to several health issues, but most prominently a condition called Ich. Sick eels may show symptoms like loss of color or appetite, spots or fungus on body or mouth, cloudy eyes, listlessness, labored respirations, erratic swimming. Sick eels should be quarantined immediately and treated with the prescribed medication.