Peacock Eel - Macrognathus siamensis

Peacock Eel (Macrognathus siamensis)

A unique, peaceful bottom-dweller with stunning patterning and loads of personality.

The Peacock Eel is a fascinating and eye-catching addition to any tropical aquarium. With its slender, eel-like body and beautiful pattern of “eye spots” near its tail, it’s no wonder this species is also known as the Spot-Finned Spiny Eel or Siamese Spiny Eel. Its body is a soft brown with a pale-yellow stripe running from the eye to the tail base, accented by 3–6 striking peacock-style spots along the dorsal region.

These peaceful bottom-dwellers are relatively small by spiny eel standards—reaching a maximum size of around 20 cm (just under a foot)—and are known to be more sociable and easier to care for than many of their relatives. In fact, they’re often recommended as a great first spiny eel for aquarists new to the species.

Aquarium Setup & Compatibility

Peacock Eels do best in a planted or dimly lit aquarium with soft sand or fine gravel substrate, and plenty of hiding spaces using driftwood, rocks, or PVC tubing. They are peaceful by nature and can coexist with other similarly sized or larger fish—making them a great addition to a calm community tank.

This species is also known to tolerate conspecifics (others of its kind), as long as they’re of similar size and provided with enough hiding spots. Be aware, though—they are notorious escape artists, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

Feeding

The Peacock Eel is a carnivore and prefers a diet of protein-rich foods, including bloodworms, blackworms, brine shrimp, and sinking frozen or live foods. Over time, many will accept high-quality carnivore pellets. Feeding at dusk or after lights out is ideal, as they’re naturally more active during those hours.

Why We Love Them

✔ Unusual eel-like appearance with beautiful "eye spots"
✔ Hardy and beginner-friendly for spiny eel keepers
✔ Peaceful and community-safe with similarly sized fish
✔ Interesting behavior and lots of personality

Quick Stats

• Species: Macrognathus siamensis

• Common Names: Peacock Eel, Spot-Finned Spiny Eel, Siamese Spiny Eel

• Origin: Southeast Asia

• Diet: Carnivorous

• Temperament: Peaceful

• Max Size: ~20 cm

• Temperature: 22–26°C

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Minimum Tank Size: 90+ litres

• Sex: Unsexed

Looking for a unique, low-maintenance oddball to spice up your aquarium? The Peacock Eel is a standout species—rare, peaceful, and packed with character. Available now at Top Fin Aquatics.