Eel - Ribbon Blue
Ribbon eels, also known as Rhinomuraena quaesita, are fascinating and visually striking marine fish that are occasionally kept in home aquariums. However, they have certain requirements that need to be met to ensure their well-being. Here are some key requirements for keeping ribbon eels:
Aquarium Size: Ribbon eels can grow quite long, with males reaching lengths of up to 3 feet (1 meter) and females reaching around 4 feet (1.2 meters). Therefore, a spacious aquarium is essential. A tank with a capacity of at least 100 gallons (378 liters) is recommended for a single ribbon eel. Larger tanks are preferable, especially for adult specimens.
Habitat and Environment: Ribbon eels are found in the sandy or muddy bottoms of reef environments. Providing a suitable environment in the aquarium is important. Use a sand substrate to mimic their natural habitat. Additionally, provide rocks or PVC pipes to create hiding spots and caves where the eels can retreat.
Water Parameters: Maintaining optimal water quality is crucial for the health of ribbon eels. The recommended water temperature for ribbon eels is between 75°F and 82°F (24°C to 28°C). The pH level should be kept within the range of 8.1 to 8.4, and the salinity should be around 1.020 to 1.025. Regular water testing and maintenance are necessary to ensure stable and suitable conditions.
Filtration and Circulation: Ribbon eels are sensitive to poor water quality, so a robust filtration system is necessary to maintain clean water. They also prefer a gentle water flow, so ensure that the water circulation is not too strong, as it can cause stress to the eel.
Feeding: Ribbon eels are carnivorous and primarily feed on small fish and crustaceans in the wild. In captivity, they should be fed a varied diet consisting of live or frozen foods. Suitable options include small fish, shrimp, squid, and other meaty preparations. It's important to provide appropriately sized food items that the eel can easily consume.
Tank Mates: Ribbon eels are solitary and can be aggressive towards tank mates, especially other eels or similarly shaped fish. It is generally recommended to keep ribbon eels in a species-only aquarium to prevent conflicts. If keeping them with other fish, choose larger, non-aggressive species that are not likely to be seen as prey.
Lighting: Ribbon eels prefer dimly lit environments, so it's important to provide subdued lighting in the aquarium. The use of adjustable or dimmable lighting systems can help create an optimal lighting level for the eel's comfort.
Behavior and Care: Ribbon eels are sensitive to stress, so it's crucial to minimize disturbances in their environment. They may exhibit occasional color changes, which can be normal behavior. Regular observation of their behavior and appetite is important to monitor their overall health.
It's worth noting that ribbon eels can be challenging to keep in home aquariums due to their specific requirements and sensitivity to water quality. Therefore, they are more commonly found in public aquariums or in the care of experienced and dedicated aquarists. Thorough research and consultation with experts are highly recommended before considering keeping ribbon eels.
