Eel / Aquarium Zone · Ballina
Macrognathus siamensis
Semi-aggressive, so choose its tankmates with care. Grows to about 30 cm and suits a tank of 150 litres or more.
The fish, up close
The Spiny Eel, scientifically known as Macrognathus siamensis, is a fascinating freshwater fish with an elongated and eel-like body. It has a smooth, scaleless skin that ranges in colour from shades of brown to olive green, often with darker mottling or stripes. One of its most striking features is the sharp spines along its dorsal fin, which give it a unique appearance. Spiny Eels have small eyes and a protractile mouth adapted for feeding on small invertebrates in the substrate. They are nocturnal and are adept burrowers, often hiding in sandy or muddy substrates during the day.
Care guide
Use these notes to shape a setup around the fish, then speak with our team about the tank you have in mind.
Plan your setupBehaviour
Spiny Eels are generally peaceful but can be territorial towards their own kind. They are secretive and shy, preferring to hide during the day and becoming more active at night. These fish are known for their burrowing behaviour, so providing a substrate that allows them to dig and hide is essential. They may also exhibit a unique behaviour called 'snaking,' where they move in a serpentine manner, especially when exploring their environment.
Tank planning
Maintaining good water quality is crucial for the health of Spiny Eels. They prefer soft, slightly acidic water with a temperature range of 24-28°C. Due to their burrowing nature, ensure that the substrate is fine-grained to prevent abrasions. Providing caves, PVC pipes, or other hiding spots will help them feel secure. Regular water changes and a well-fitted lid to prevent escapes are important considerations for their care.
Practical details
Questions
For a specific fish, current stock or a tank setup question, speak with the Aquarium Zone team before travelling.
Contact the storeAquarium Zone regularly helps customers find freshwater fish in Ballina and across the Northern Rivers. Stock changes week to week, so contact the store before visiting if you are looking for Spiny Eel.
Yes. Bring your tank size, current fish list, setup photos, and any water test results so the team can help with compatibility, stocking, and care advice.
Spiny Eel is listed with this tank recommendation: A single Spiny Eel should be housed in a tank of at least 75 litres. For a small group or community setup, a larger tank of 150 litres or more is recommended to accommodate their territorial behaviour and provide ample hiding spaces. Ask in-store for advice based on your exact setup and tank mates.
Yes. Aquarium Zone serves aquarium hobbyists from Ballina, Lennox Head, Alstonville, Wollongbar, Bangalow, Byron Bay, Lismore, Evans Head, Mullumbimby, Casino and the wider Northern Rivers.
Aquarium Zone / Ballina
Looking for Spiny Eel? Contact us to confirm current availability and discuss whether it suits your aquarium before making the trip.
18 Southern Cross Drive
