1x Short Fin Eel 60cm

Short Fin Eel

The Short Fin Eel is a true oddball freshwater fish native to rivers and lakes in Australia and New Zealand. They are incredibly unique fish in the Australian aquarium hobby and are super versatile fish that can be kept in aquariums and outdoor ponds all year round. These are also large growing fish which makes them a fantastic addition to a predator or native Australian-themed aquarium.

The Short Fin Eel is a true eel species and has a snake-like appearance, with a long, slender body and small, almost invisible fins. They are typically brown or olive-green in colour from head to tail, with a lighter-coloured belly. The brown portion of their body can also show some dark spots and mottling at times as well. Instead of scales, these eels actually have smooth and slimy skin that tightly wraps around the body. Being true eel, these fish have a unique life cycle, migrating from freshwater to saltwater to spawn and then returning to freshwater as juveniles.

Short Fin eels have only been bred so far in lab conditions, due to how these fish breed in the wild, it is near impossible to replicate at home. Visually, as males and females look very similar it is hard to differentiate the fish to prepare for spawning. Short fin eels however can live their entire life in freshwater before passing so they do not need to be moved to saltwater conditions as they mature.

Tank Recommendations for your Short Fin Eel

Short Fin Eels require a large tank because of how long they can reach. An aquarium volume with a minimum of at least 650 liters is best since this ensures the tank will be large enough in footprint whilst also having a good capacity.

These are very reclusive fish and will prefer using driftwood, PVC pipe caves, and other structures to hide in. A sand or smooth gravel substrate is also fine for these eels. They prefer dim lighting which means that you will need to consider plant species that will grow in low-light conditions if you decide to add plants. Water temperature should be between 20 - 28°C, with a pH of 6.5 - 7.5 and moderate water flow.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Short Fin Eels are generally solitary fish and can become predatory towards small tank mates. They are best kept alone or with larger semi-aggressive fish that won't compete for space or food. 

Usually Compatible

Tandanus catfish, Barramundi, Silver Perch, Golden Perch, Australian Lungfish, saratoga, and other native Australian predatory species.

Sometimes Compatible

Medium-sized cichlids such as jack Dempsey, blue acara, and some smaller but fast-paced fish like red rainbows. These fish do have the risk of becoming prey, however, should be fast enough to avoid being eaten.

Rarely Compatible

Small tetras, dwarf cichlids, and other small fish would be eaten by the eel. Whilst these eels should thrive alone as they have hiding places to avoid aggression, species like Dovii will be too aggressive.

Feeding your Short Fin Eel

Short Fin Eels are carnivorous and require a varied diet of meaty foods. They may not take to pellets at all but they can easily be fed pieces of shrimp, fish, and molluscs which can be enriched with a nutrient supplement. Alternatively, pellets can be stuffed into the meaty food before being given to the eel. These eels will be most active at night, so you may find the eel to have a better feeding response then.