Yellow Fin Spiny Eel

Yellowfin Spiny Eel (Macrognathus pancalus)

A shy, nocturnal oddball that adds personality and intrigue to a well-planned aquarium.

The Yellowfin Spiny Eel is a lesser-known but fascinating bottom-dweller that's perfect for aquarists looking to add something a bit more unusual to their freshwater setup. Native to slow-moving waters across India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Pakistan, this eel-like species thrives in soft, sandy environments with plenty of hiding places.

Although relatively small—reaching up to 18 cm (7.1")—the Yellowfin Spiny Eel makes a big impression with its shy nature, unique burrowing behavior, and night-time activity. It prefers low lighting and a peaceful environment without small tankmates that could be mistaken for food.

Aquarium Setup & Compatibility

This species thrives in an aquarium with a fine sand substrate that allows it to dig and bury itself throughout the day. Add lots of hiding places using driftwood, smooth rock caves, PVC piping, and dense plant growth. Leaf litter, such as Indian Almond Leaves, is also highly appreciated and helps mimic its natural habitat.

Lighting should be dim or filtered through floating plants to help this eel feel secure. Because it's nocturnal, a blue moonlight setting before lights-out is great for observing it during its active hours.

Make sure your aquarium has a tight-fitting lid, as Yellowfin Spiny Eels are expert escape artists!

Good tankmates include medium to large peaceful fish, such as larger rasboras, rainbowfish, gouramis, Geophagus species, peaceful loaches, and L-number plecos. Avoid keeping them with small fish like neon tetras, as these may be eaten overnight.

Only one Yellowfin Spiny Eel should be kept per tank unless the setup is very spacious and filled with visual barriers—larger groups of 5 or more can be housed together under the right conditions.

Feeding

The Yellowfin Spiny Eel is carnivorous and prefers a varied diet of frozen or live meaty foods, including:

• Bloodworms

• White mosquito larvae

• Vitamin-enriched brine shrimp

• Daphnia

• Finely chopped krill or mysis for larger individuals

Dry foods are rarely accepted, so regular feedings of high-quality frozen food are essential to keep them healthy and active.

Why We Love Them

✔ Unique burrowing and nocturnal behavior
✔ Peaceful oddball species for a calm, dimly lit tank
✔ Beautiful yellow fins and subtle banding
✔ Excellent personality and fun to observe

Quick Stats

• Species: Macrognathus pancalus

• Common Name: Yellowfin Spiny Eel

• Origin: South Asia – India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan

• Max Size: ~18 cm (7.1")

• Temperature: 23–27°C

• pH Range: 7.0–8.5

• Water Hardness: 12–25 dH

• Minimum Tank Size: 90+ litres

• Sexing: Very difficult – females may appear plumper when breeding

• Behavior: Peaceful, but may prey on small fish

Looking for a peaceful oddball to round out your freshwater tank? The Yellowfin Spiny Eel is a fantastic choice for experienced aquarists wanting something truly unique. Now available at Top Fin Aquatics.