Pink Paddletail Eel

The Pink Paddletail Eel, also known as the Pink Congo Paddletail Eel, is a popular aquarium species prized for its unique appearance. Its scientific name is Mastacembelus erythrotaenia, and it belongs to the family Mastacembelidae. This eel is native to the Congo Basin in Africa.

The Pink Paddletail Eel gets its name from its distinctive paddle-shaped tail fin and its pinkish coloration. These eels have elongated bodies with smooth, scaleless skin and small eyes. They possess an elongated dorsal fin that runs along the back and a pointed snout.

In captivity, Pink Paddletail Eels require large aquariums with plenty of hiding spots and areas to explore. They are generally nocturnal and will spend much of the day hiding in caves or crevices. Their diet typically consists of live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and other small invertebrates.

It’s essential to research and understand the specific care requirements of Pink Paddletail Eels before considering keeping them in an aquarium, as they can be sensitive to water quality and require specialized care. Additionally, always ensure that any specimen you acquire has been ethically sourced and obtained through legal means, as wild populations may be threatened by overcollection and habitat destruction.