|
(enchelycore pardalis)
Saltwater
Native to the Indo-Pacific Ocean region, it is rare but very popular with those aquarists who like eels. It is mottled in vibrant shades of orange, black and white, with more orange on the chest than the either of its "cousins," the Hawaiian and Mexican Dragon Eels. It has very large, jet black eyes. The mouth is full of teeth that are sharp and fang-like and the bottom jaw can not close because of its curved shape, making the eel look especially menacing. Its head is much larger than its body. Escaping is a favorite activity, having the ability to go through small holes. It is important to keep the lid on tight. Known also as the Japanese Dragon Moray.
Size: ave. 12" to 18"; can get as long as 36"
No. in Tank: one
Tank: min. 100 gallons
Temperament: VERY Aggressive
Food: (Carnivore) This eel may need to be coaxed to eat in the beginning. Offering live food, such as fresh shrimp, may help. Once eating, it will eat just about anything it can get its mouth around, but being a hunter, it prefers live foods such as crabs, small fish, shrimp and squid, presented on feeding tongs. The eel can fast for long periods of time (months), without hurting itself. Feed 1 to 2 times a week.
Light: Medium
Adaptation: Often anxious at first, needing plenty of hiding places where it can conceal itself completely may help. The eel is actually a shy guy who will hide until completely comfortable with its surroundings. Then it may stick its head out or lay out in complete view. Need an aquarium with an excellent water filtration system, due to the large amount of waste eels produce. It will take 2+ hours to fully acclimate.
Compatibility: Best kept with large, aggressive, predatory fish such as Groupers, Puffers and Lionfish. Being a predator by nature, it will eat most anything it can get inside its mouth. Depending on the eel's disposition, he may not be able to live with other marine life including other eels.
**EXPERT AQUARISTS**VERY AGGRESSIVE**RARE
|
